A nanoparticulate dual scavenger for targeted therapy of inflammatory bowel disease

A cerium nanocluster for effective alleviation of inflammatory bowel disease by scavenging RONS and regulating gut microbiome

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by excessive generation of reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species (RONS) within the pro-inflammatory microenvironment. Conventional treatments often have serious side effects, making IBD management challenging. Here, a new cerium cluster, Ce12, with a formula of [Ce12(μ 3-O)8(μ 3-OH)8(μ 2-OH)6(ADA)18]∙3H2O∙3CH3CN (ADA- = 1-adamantanecarboxylate) was prepared and capped with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) through self-assembly process involving the adamantane moiety of Ce12 and β-CD, resulting in Ce12@CD nanoparticles (NPs). Ce12@CD NPs, with good stability and biocompatibility, exhibit excellent reactive RONS scavenging activities due to the presence of a fraction of Ce3+ ions, offering potential for treating inflammatory diseases. Treatment significantly alleviated body weight loss, colon length reduction, and pathological injury of colon in mice with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-elicited colitis, thereby repairing the intestinal mucosal barrier and reducing inflammation. RNA sequence analysis revealed that the therapeutic effects of Ce12@CD NPs are highly correlated with IL-17 and TNF signaling pathways, thereby reducing inflammatory factors such as IL-1β and TNF-α, and alleviating intestinal inflammation. Additionally, Ce12@CD NPs successfully modulated DSS-induced gut microbiota imbalances. This work highlights the unique catalytic activity of Ce12@CD NPs in removing RONS and mimicking biological enzymes, showcasing their potential therapeutic applications for inflammatory disorders.

New Evidence for the Mechanisms of Nanoplastics Amplifying Cadmium Cytotoxicity: Trojan Horse Effect, Inflammatory Response, and Calcium Imbalance

Nanoplastics (NPs) are emerging pollutants worldwide. Particularly worrisome is that although studies have reported that NPs can amplify the biotoxicity of environmental pollutants, the specific mechanism remains unclear. Here, we found that NPs, even without significant toxicity (cell survival: 99.11%), amplified the hepatocyte toxicity of Cd2+. Mechanistically, higher Cd2+ uptake (Δ = 23.80%) combined with crucial intracellular desorption behavior of Cd2+ loaded in NPs (desorption rate: 82.70%) were identified as prerequisites for NPs amplifying Cd2+ cytotoxicity. As for toxigenic pathways, the inflammatory response and calcium (Ca) signaling pathway were identified as the primary molecular events leading to the amplification of Cd2+ cytotoxicity. Further phenotypic monitoring revealed that NPs synergized with Cd2+ to induce more severe pyroptosis and apoptosis by activating the inflammatory caspase-1-dependent and Ca2+-mitochondrial-caspase-3 pathways to a greater extent, respectively. This study reveals and proves for the first time the "Trojan horse" effects of NPs, thus elucidating the actual mechanisms by which NPs act as toxicity amplifiers of pollutants, providing significant insights into accurate risk assessment of NPs in composite pollution.

Cell-free DNA-scavenging nano/microsystems for immunotherapy

In the context of inflammation, autoimmune diseases, infections, and cancers, cfDNA plays a pivotal role in disease progression through various mechanisms. Immunotherapies based on cfDNA scavenging has emerged as a promising approach for treating these conditions. This review offers a comprehensive exploration of cfDNA-binding and degradation strategies, providing detailed insights into the corresponding nano/microsystems for each approach. Nano/microsystems used for cfDNA binding include cationic polymers, nanoparticles, nanogels, and other materials that physically capture cfDNA via electrostatic interactions or other affinity mechanisms, thereby mitigating the immunological effects of cfDNA. Nano/microsystems designed for cfDNA degradation primarily involve DNase delivery systems and artificial enzymes with DNase-like activity, which degrade cfDNA through chemical cleavage. Furthermore, this review discusses the potential synergy between cfDNA-scavenging therapies and other treatment modalities, aiming to achieve more effective and comprehensive immunotherapy. By thoroughly analyzing these strategies, we aim to emphasize the transformative potential of cfDNA-scavenging nano/microsystems in advancing immunotherapy, and offer valuable perspectives for future research in this emerging field.

Thermo-responsive methylcellulose/hyaluronic acid-mesalamine hydrogel in targeted drug delivery for ulcerative colitis

Current treatments for ulcerative colitis (UC), including mesalamine (Me) enemas, face limitations such as poor colonic retention, systemic side effects, and suboptimal patient compliance. To address these challenges, this study developed a thermo-responsive hydrogel combining hyaluronic acid-mesalamine (HA-Me) conjugates with methylcellulose (MC), providing a targeted and sustained drug delivery platform for UC treatment. HA-Me conjugates were synthesized via a nucleophilic addition-elimination reaction, with FT-IR and 1H-NMR confirming successful conjugation and a grafting ratio of 12.45%. Rheological analysis revealed a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of 36.7-37.7 °C, ensuring gelation at body temperature when the MC concentration was 5-7 wt%. The optimized hydrogel exhibits intestinal retention properties, thereby improving drug bioavailability. The results confirmed that this hydrogel not only improved drug release time but also provided a protective barrier for inflamed wounds, facilitating wound healing, reducing the risk of reinfection, and improving medical compliance. Its mucoadhesive properties further supported effective drug delivery and localized therapeutic effects. This study highlights the potential of the MC/HA-Me hydrogel as a platform for overcoming the limitations of conventional UC treatments, offering opportunities for tailored therapeutic applications and future clinical development.

Somatostatin and Mannooligosaccharide Modified Selenium Nanoparticles with Dual-Targeting for Ulcerative Colitis Treatment

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a prevalent condition worldwide, characterized by complex etiologies, limited efficacy of clinical drug treatments, and potential adverse effects. In this study, we designed 269 nm selenium nanoparticles with double-cell targeting for ulcerative colitis treatment. Somatostatin (SST) and mannooligosaccharide (MOS) were employed to functionalize an Eucommia ulmoides polysaccharide selenium nanoparticle (EUP-SeNP), resulting in the formulation of SST/MOS@EUP-SeNP. Nanoparticles were engineered to target intestinal epithelial cells and macrophages through specific cell surface receptors, enabling dual-targeted treatment. In addition, sodium alginate (SA) microspheres incorporating SST/MOS@EUP-SeNP were prepared for oral administration, protecting the nanoparticles from gastric fluid. The results showed that SA/SST/MOS@EUP-SeNP could preferentially target the inflamed colon tissue and adhere to the colon, enhance the intestinal barrier function, regulate the level of colon inflammation, enhance antioxidant capacity, and regulate the composition of intestinal microbes to effectively relieve the colitis induced by sodium glucan sulfate (DSS). Meanwhile, SA/SST/MOS@EUP-SeNP had excellent biocompatibility both in vivo and in vitro. To some extent, this study can provide a reference for the treatment of IBD.

Clearance of Cell-Free DNA: A Novel Target for Therapeutic Utilization in Multiple Systemic Disorders

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) holds significant promise for diagnostic and therapeutic advancements in medicine. This review delineates the utility of cfDNA in diagnostics and its therapeutic potential through clearance mechanisms for an array of diseases. Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) are endogenous molecules released by host cells during stress, or injury. As a trigger for inflammatory responses via damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), cfDNA's removal via nanotechnological approaches can attenuate inflammation and promote tissue repair. While the application of cfDNA clearance is particularly auspicious in cancer, sepsis, and inflammatory conditions, it is confronted with challenges including toxicity, specificity, and the rigors of clinical trial validation. Collectively, this review delineates novel therapeutic targets to inform the development of innovative treatment strategies.

Assembly of MSCs into a spheroid configuration increases poly(I:C)-mediated TLR3 activation and the immunomodulatory potential of MSCs for alleviating murine colitis

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with significant clinical challenges due to the limitations of current therapeutic approaches. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based therapies have shown promise in alleviating IBD owing to their potent immunomodulatory properties. However, the therapeutic efficacy of these cells remains suboptimal, primarily due to the harsh peritoneal microenvironment, which compromises MSC viability and functional capacity after transplantation.

METHODS

To address these limitations, this study aimed to improve MSC engraftment and functionality by assembling MSCs into three-dimensional (3D) spheroids and priming them with the Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) agonist polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)). Their potential for treating IBD was evaluated using male C57BL/6 mice with dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis.

RESULTS

While 3D spheroid formation alone upregulated TLR3 expression and increased MSC survival under oxidative stress, poly(I:C) priming had a pronounced synergistic effect, significantly increasing MSC-mediated splenocyte modulation and oxidative stress resistance. In a murine colitis model, compared with unprimed spheroids or MSC suspensions, poly(I:C)-primed MSC spheroids administered intraperitoneally exhibited increased survival and therapeutic efficacy, effectively alleviating colitis symptoms, reducing colonic inflammation, and promoting tissue recovery.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, these findings highlight the synergistic benefits of combining 3D spheroid assembly with TLR3 activation as an innovative strategy to improve the therapeutic efficacy of MSC-based treatments for IBD and other inflammatory diseases by increasing post-engraftment cell survival and immunomodulatory capacity.

New Advances in Periodontal Functional Materials Based on Antibacterial, Anti-Inflammatory, and Tissue Regeneration Strategies

With the global population aging, awareness of oral health is rising. Periodontitis, a widespread bacterial infectious disease, is gaining attention. Current novel biomaterials address key clinical issues like bacterial infection, gum inflammation, tooth loosening, and loss, focusing on antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and tissue regeneration properties. However, strategies that integrate the advantages of these biomaterials to achieve synergistic therapeutic effects by clearing oral biofilms, inhibiting inflammation activation, and restoring periodontal soft and hard tissue functions remain very limited. Recent studies highlight the link between periodontitis and systemic diseases, underscoring the complexity of the periodontal disease. There is an urgent need to find comprehensive treatment plans that address clinical requirements. Whether by integrating new biomaterials to enhance existing periodontal treatments or by developing novel approaches to replace traditional therapies, these efforts will drive advancements in periodontitis treatment. Therefore, this review compares novel biomaterials with traditional treatments. It highlights the design concepts and mechanisms of these functional materials, focusing on their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and tissue regeneration properties, and discusses the importance of developing comprehensive treatment strategies. This review aims to provide guidance for emerging periodontitis research and to promote the development of precise and efficient treatment strategies.

Multienzyme active melanin nanodots for antioxidant-immunomodulatory therapy of hyperoxia lung injury

Supraphysiological oxygen is the most conventional method of treating patients with acute respiratory failure, but prolonged exposure to hyperoxia generates large amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the lungs, leading to hyperoxia lung injury (HLI). Nevertheless, there is no safe and effective prevention strategy. Herein, multienzyme active melanin nanodots were developed as an antioxidant-immunomodulatory defense nanoplatform for the treatment of HLI. The prepared nanodots are about 4 nm in size and are mainly composed of carbon, nitrogen and oxygen elements with high stability and multi-enzymatic activity for scavenging various reactive oxygen and reactive nitrogen radicals. Cellular experiments showed that melanin nanodots increased cell viability and ameliorated hyperoxia-induced morphological changes, mitochondrial damage and apoptosis. Meanwhile, by activating the Nrf2/Keap1/HO-1 signaling pathway, the treatment of melanin nanodots significantly inhibited the overproduction of ROS, reduced malondialdehyde, and increased the endogenous antioxidant enzyme activity in BEAS-2B cells. Interestingly, the antioxidant properties of melanin nanodots indirectly promoted the phenotypic shift of macrophages, and reduced hyperoxia-induced inflammatory responses in the damaged environment. In vivo NIR-II fluorescence imaging confirms the high retention of nanodots in the lungs and low accumulation in other major organs after inhalation administration, as well as the high biosafety of the melanin nanodots as they are metabolized out of the body over time via the liver and intestines. In addition, the melanin nanodots exhibited satisfactory antioxidant protection and inhibition of inflammatory cell infiltration in the lungs of HLI mouse models. Therefore, the melanin nanodots provide a potential and effective strategy for the treatment of HLI, showing great promise for application.

Multifunctional Boron-based 2D Nanoplatforms Ameliorate Severe Respiratory Inflammation by Targeting Multiple Inflammatory Mediators

Effective management of serious respiratory diseases, such as asthma and recalcitrant rhinitis, remains a global challenge. Here, it is shown that induced sputum supernatants (ISS) from patients with asthma contain higher levels of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) compared to that of healthy volunteers. Although cfDNA scavenging strategies have been developed for inflammation modulation in previous studies, this fall short in clinical settings due to the excessive neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) and bacterial infections in injured airway tissues. Based on this, a multifunctional boron-based 2D nanoplatform B-PM is designed by coating boron nanosheets (B-NS) with polyamidoamine generation 1 (PG1) dendrimer, which can simultaneously target cfDNA, NETs, RONS, and bacteria. The effects of B-PM in promoting mucosal repair, reducing airway inflammation, and mucus production have been demonstrated in model mice, and the therapeutic effect is superior to dexamethasone. Furthermore, flow cytometry with clustering analysis and transcriptome analysis with RNA-sequencing are adopted to comprehensively evaluate the in vivo anti-inflammation therapeutic effects. These findings emphasize the significance of a multi-targeting strategy to modulate dysregulated inflammation and highlight multifunctional boron-based 2D nanoplatforms for the amelioration of respiratory inflammatory diseases.

Biosilicification-mimicking chiral nanostructures for targeted treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

The cascade reaction of lipopolysaccharides (LPS), cell-free DNA (cfDNA), and reactive oxygen species (ROS), drives the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Herein, we construct polyethylenimide (PEI)-L/D-tartaric acid (L/D-TA) complexes templated mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles (MON) (PEI-L/D-TA@MON) by mimicking biosilicification under ambient conditions within seconds. The chiral nanomedicines include four functional moieties, wherein PEI electrostatically attracts cfDNA, tetrathulfide bonds reductively react with ROS, silanol groups adsorb LPS, and L/D-TA enables chiral recognition and inflammatory localization. Following oral administration, PEI-L-TA@MON exhibiting preferential conformation stereoscopically matches with mucosa and anchors onto inflammatory intestine for lesion targeting. PEI-L-TA@MON eliminates LPS, ROS, and cfDNA, alleviating oxidative stress, inhibiting inflammatory cascade, and maintaining immune homeostasis to achieve IBD therapy. In addition, the rapid synthesis, low cost, energy-free preparation, negligible toxicity, satisfactory therapeutic effect, and facile conversion on therapeutic modes of PEI-L-TA@MON will bring changes for IBD treatment, providing research values and translational clinical prospects.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells Armed with DNA Nanorobots as a Modality for Combination Therapy of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Therapeutic strategies that can target multilevel immunoregulatory pathways in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and efficiently target the site of inflammation are expected to greatly enhance the therapeutic efficacy. Here, we have developed a DNA nanorobot-armed bidirectional resistant mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) for IBD treatment, which blocks lymphocyte infiltration at the site of inflammation by bidirectional inhibition of integrin-ligand inter-recognition via resistant aptamer-hands. And this strategy can induce MSC homing for immunomodulation and tissue repair. Herein, in this nanorobot, tetrahedral DNA (TDN) serves as a communication bridge, Integrin α4 and VCAM 1 aptamers are equipped to two vertices of TDN, and the other two cholesterol vertices of TDN are used for immobilization on MSC. In murine colitis models, tail vein-injected resistant MSC preferentially and rapidly accumulated in the inflamed colon and have been more effective in reducing colonic inflammation than pure MSC or aptamers bidirectional inhibitors. The therapeutic strategy proposed in this work has minimal systemic side effects and holds therapeutic promise for a subgroup of IBD patients who do not respond to single anti-inflammatory therapies.

Closed-loop theranostic microgels for immune microenvironment modulation and microbiota remodeling in ulcerative colitis

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by the upregulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and dysfunction of gut immune system, and microbiota. The conventional treatments mainly focus on symptom control with medication by overuse of drugs. There is an urgent need to develop a closed-loop strategy that combines in situ monitoring and precise treatment. Herein, we innovatively designed the 'cluster munition structure' theranostic microgels to realize the monitoring and therapy for ulcerative colitis (a subtype of IBD). The superoxide anion specific probe (tetraphenylethylene-coelenterazine, TPC) and ROS-responsive nanogels consisting of postbiotics urolithin A (UA) were loaded into alginate and ion-crosslinked to obtain the theranostic microgels. The theranostic microgels could be delivered to the inflammatory site, where the environment-triggered breakup of the microgels and release of the nanogels were achieved in sequence. The TPC-UA group had optimal results in reducing inflammation, repairing colonic epithelial tissue, and remodeling microbiota, leading to inflammation amelioration and recovery of tight junction between the colonic epithelium, and maintenance of gut microbiota. During the recovery process, the local chemiluminescence intensity, which is proportional to the degree of inflammation, was gradually inhibited. The cluster munition of theranostic microgels displayed promising outcomes in monitoring inflammation and precise therapy, and demonstrated the potential for inflammatory disease management.

Maintaining myoprotein and redox homeostasis via an orally recharged nanoparticulate supplement potentiates sarcopenia treatment

Sarcopenia is a progressive skeletal muscle disorder characterized by the accelerated loss of muscle mass and function, with no promising pharmacotherapies. Understanding the imbalance of myoprotein homeostasis within myotubes, which causes sarcopenia, may facilitate the development of novel treatments for clinical use. In this study, we found a strong correlation between low serum selenium levels and muscle function in elderly patients with sarcopenia. We hypothesized that supplementation with selenium might be beneficial for the management of sarcopenia. To verify this hypothesis, we developed diselenide-bridged mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Se-Se-MSNs) with ROS-responsive degradation and release to supplement selenium. Se-Se-MSNs outperformed free selenocysteine in alleviating sarcopenia in both dexamethasone (Dex)- and denervation-induced mouse models. Subsequently, Se-Se-MSNs were loaded with leucine (Leu@Se-Se-MSNs), another nutritional supplement used in sarcopenia management. Oral administration of Leu@Se-Se-MSNs restored myoprotein homeostasis by enhancing mTOR/S6K signaling and inactivating Akt/FoxO3a/MuRF1 signaling, thus exerting optimal therapeutic effects against sarcopenia and exhibiting a more favorable in vivo safety profile. This study provides a proof of concept for treating sarcopenia by maintaining myoprotein and redox homeostasis simultaneously and offers valuable insights into the development of multifunctional nanoparticle-based supplements for sarcopenia management.

A Biomimetic Sweeping Microrobot for Active Therapy of Ulcerative Colitis

Overproduction of pathogenic cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays crucial roles in the onset and perpetuation of ulcerative colitis (UC). Inspired by sweeping robots, a magnesium@polylactic acid-glycolic acid copolymer@polyethylenimine (Mg@PLGA@PEI) microswimmer capable of cleaning off deleterious disease triggers along its path of progress is designed. Mg@PLGA@PEI is successfully synthesized by adopting a core-shell structure with a small opening which allows for Mg-water reaction. The distinctive motility performance resulting from sustained detachment of the produced hydrogen not only contributes to strengthened hydrogen diffusion concomitant with potentiated ROS neutralization, but also facilitates the contacting probability with microenvironmental cfDNA and thus enhances the DNA binding efficiency. By integrating these merits, the developed Mg@PLGA@PEI confers desirable curative efficacy in a classical DSS-induced acute colitis mouse model. Enema administration of Mg@PLGA@PEI microswimmers substantially alleviates the manifestations related to UC, as evidenced by the body weight recovery, colon length retention, colon tissue protection, and attenuated intestinal inflammation, which is attributed to the active scavenging of cfDNA and ROS. This work provides a paradigm for a drug-free strategy competent in spontaneously eliminating causative triggers with minimal side effects, which presents a promising alternative for the active therapy of UC or other cfDNA- and ROS-related diseases in the clinic.

pH-responsive cationic polymer-functionalized poly-ε-caprolactone microspheres scavenge cell-free-DNA to alleviate intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury by inhibiting M1 macrophage polarization

Intestinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a common life-threatening condition. Inflammatory dysregulation plays a crucial role in the pathological progression of intestinal I/R injury, indicating that controlling excessive inflammatory responses can be an effective strategy for mitigating I/R injury. Herein, after establishing a correlation between cell-free DNA (cfDNA) levels and postoperative inflammatory factors in samples from patients with intestinal I/R, we tested a cfDNA-scavenging approach for the treatment of intestinal I/R injury. Poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) microspheres (Micro DEA2k) functionalized with a pH-responsive cationic polymer (DEA2k) to efficiently scavenge cfDNA were synthesized and evaluated.These microspheres exhibited enhanced cfDNA adsorption under inflammation-induced acidic conditions, along with low toxicity, reduced non-specific protein binding, and extended peritoneal retention. In a mouse model of intestinal I/R injury, the intraperitoneal injection Micro DEA2k effectively bound cfDNA, regulated the mononuclear phagocytic system, decreased the number of M1 macrophages, suppressed inflammation, and significantly improved the survival rate of the mice. These findings suggest that cfDNA scavenging using cationic microspheres has considerable potential for alleviating intestinal I/R injury.

Helix-Guarded Molecular Clips for Cell-Free DNA Scavenging and Treatment of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Immune disorders induced by cell-free DNA (cfDNA) account for the incidence and deterioration of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Scavenging of cfDNA using cationic polymers represents a promising modality for SLE management. However, they bind cfDNA mainly via electrostatic interaction, which would result in an undesired discharge of the captured cfDNA upon competitive replacement by the negatively charged serum/intracellular components. Inspired by the natural recognition mechanism of biomacromolecules via spatial matching, we herein developed a library of dendrimer-templated, spherical, α-helical, and guanidine-rich polypeptides as molecular clips for cfDNA scavenging. Upon optimization of the polypeptide length and density on the dendrimer surface, the top-performing G3-8 was identified, which could tightly confine cfDNA within the cavity between the adjacent, rod-like α-helices. As thus, the helical G3-8 but not the random-coiled analogue D,L-G3-8 enabled robust cfDNA scavenging under serum-rich conditions to inhibit TLR9 activation and inflammation. In SLE mice, i.v. injected G3-8 efficiently prevented organ failure and inhibited inflammation by scavenging cfDNA. This study provides an enlightened strategy to stably bind and scavenge cfDNA and may shift the current paradigm of SLE management.

Neurovascularization inhibiting dual responsive hydrogel for alleviating the progression of osteoarthritis

Treating osteoarthritis (OA) associated pain is a challenge with the potential to significantly improve patients lives. Here, we report on a hydrogel for extracellular RNA scavenging and releasing bevacizumab to block neurovascularization at the osteochondral interface, thereby mitigating OA pain and disease progression. The hydrogel is formed by cross-linking aldehyde-phenylboronic acid-modified sodium alginate/polyethyleneimine-grafted protocatechuic acid (OSAP/PPCA) and bevacizumab sustained-release nanoparticles (BGN@Be), termed OSPPB. The dynamic Schiff base bonds and boronic ester bonds allow for injectability, self-healing, and pH/reactive oxygen species dual responsiveness. The OSPPB hydrogel can significantly inhibit angiogenesis and neurogenesis in vitro. In an in vivo OA model, intraarticular injection of OSPPB accelerates the healing process of condyles and alleviates chronic pain by inhibiting neurovascularization at the osteochondral interface. The injectable hydrogel represents a promising technique to treat OA and OA associated pain.

Navigating a challenging path: precision disease treatment with tailored oral nano-armor-probiotics

Oral probiotics have significant potential for preventing and treating many diseases. Yet, their efficacy is often hindered by challenges related to survival and colonization within the gastrointestinal tract. Nanoparticles emerge as a transformative solution, offering robust protection and enhancing the stability and bioavailability of these probiotics. This review explores the innovative application of nanoparticle-armored engineered probiotics for precise disease treatment, specifically addressing the physiological barriers associated with oral administration. A comprehensive evaluation of various nano-armor probiotics and encapsulation methods is provided, carefully analyzing their respective merits and limitations, alongside strategies to enhance probiotic survival and achieve targeted delivery and colonization within the gastrointestinal tract. Furthermore, the review explores the potential clinical applications of nano-armored probiotics in precision therapeutics, critically addressing safety and regulatory considerations, and proposing the innovative concept of 'probiotic intestinal colonization with nano armor' for brain-targeted therapies. Ultimately, this review aspires to guide the advancement of nano-armored probiotic therapies, driving progress in precision medicine and paving the way for groundbreaking treatment modalities.

Biomimetic bioreactor for potentiated uricase replacement therapy in hyperuricemia and gout

Introduction

Uricase replacement therapy is a promising approach for managing hyperuricemia and gout but is hindered by challenges such as short blood circulation time, reduced catalytic activity, and excessive hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production. These limitations necessitate innovative strategies to enhance therapeutic efficacy and safety.

Methods

We designed and synthesized RBC@SeMSN@Uri, a red blood cell-coated biomimetic self-cascade bioreactor, which encapsulates uricase (Uri) and a selenium-based nano-scavenger (SeMSN) within RBC membranes. This design aims to reduce immunogenicity, extend systemic circulation, and maintain enzymatic activity. In vitro assays were conducted to evaluate biocompatibility, anti-inflammatory effects, and oxidative stress protection. In vivo experiments in hyperuricemia and gout models assessed therapeutic efficacy, biodistribution, and biosafety.

Results

RBC@SeMSN@Uri effectively degraded uric acid (UA) into allantoin and converted H2O2 into water, preventing oxidative damage and inflammation. In vitro assays demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and reduced H2O2-induced inflammatory responses compared to free uricase. In vivo, the bioreactor prolonged circulation time, significantly reduced uric acid levels, alleviated kidney damage, and mitigated symptoms of hyperuricemia and gout. It also targeted inflamed joints, reducing swelling and inflammation in gouty arthritis models.

Discussion

This study presents RBC@SeMSN@Uri as a novel biomimetic strategy for enzyme replacement therapy in hyperuricemia and gout. By integrating uricase and selenium-based nano-scavenger within RBC membranes, the bioreactor addresses key limitations of traditional therapies, offering enhanced stability, reduced immunogenicity, and superior therapeutic efficacy. This platform holds potential for broader applications in protein or antibody delivery for enzyme replacement therapies in other diseases.

Roles of the Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products and Its Ligands in the Pathogenesis of Alzheimer's Disease

The Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products (RAGE), part of the immunoglobulin superfamily, plays a significant role in various essential functions under both normal and pathological conditions, especially in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). RAGE engages with several damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), including advanced glycation end products (AGEs), beta-amyloid peptide (Aβ), high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), and S100 calcium-binding proteins. This interaction impairs the brain's ability to clear Aβ, resulting in increased Aβ accumulation, neuronal injury, and mitochondrial dysfunction. This further promotes inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, ultimately leading to a range of age-related diseases. Given RAGE's significant role in AD, inhibitors that target RAGE and its ligands hold promise as new strategies for treating AD, offering new possibilities for alleviating and treating this serious neurodegenerative disease. This article reviews the various pathogenic mechanisms of AD and summarizes the literature on the interaction between RAGE and its ligands in various AD-related pathological processes, with a particular focus on the evidence and mechanisms by which RAGE interactions with AGEs, HMGB1, Aβ, and S100 proteins induce cognitive impairment in AD. Furthermore, the article discusses the principles of action of RAGE inhibitors and inhibitors targeting RAGE-ligand interactions, along with relevant clinical trials.

An orally administered gold nanocluster with ROS scavenging for inflammatory bowel disease treatment

Oxidative stress that is induced by excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) is considered to be a key pathophysiological mechanism of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and restoring redox homeostasis in the inflammatory region by eliminating ROS is an effective way to treat IBD. Herein, ultrasmall Au25 nanoclusters (Au25 NCs) were synthesized using a simple improved protocol, which has good physiological stability and biosafety and can be noninvasively monitored by clinical computed tomography (CT) after oral administration. Au25 NCs can eliminate ROS such as ABTS radicals, superoxide free radicals (•O2 -), and hydroxyl free radicals (•OH), upregulate the expression level of antioxidant enzymes, inhibit the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, and finally interrupt the inflammatory circuit of IBD to achieve the effective prevention and delayed treatment of IBD. This work will demonstrate the protective effect of Au25 NCs on IBD in living animals, which suggests a new nanomedicine strategy for IBD treatment.

Nanomaterial-Mediated Reprogramming of Macrophages to Inhibit Refractory Muscle Fibrosis

Orofacial muscles are particularly prone to refractory fibrosis after injury, leading to a negative effect on the patient's quality of life and limited therapeutic options. Gaining insights into innate inflammatory response-fibrogenesis homeostasis can aid in the development of new therapeutic strategies for muscle fibrosis. In this study, the crucial role of macrophages is identified in the regulation of orofacial muscle fibrogenesis after injury. Hypothesizing that orchestrating macrophage polarization and functions will be beneficial for fibrosis treatment, nanomaterials are engineered with polyethylenimine functionalization to regulate the macrophage phenotype by capturing negatively charged cell-free nucleic acids (cfNAs). This cationic nanomaterial reduces macrophage-related inflammation in vitr and demonstrates excellent efficacy in preventing orofacial muscle fibrosis in vivo. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals that the cationic nanomaterial reduces the proportion of profibrotic Gal3+ macrophages through the cfNA-mediated TLR7/9-NF-κB signaling pathway, resulting in a shift in profibrotic fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) from the matrix-producing Fabp4+ subcluster to the matrix-degrading Igf1+ subcluster. The study highlights a strategy to target innate inflammatory response-fibrogenesis homeostasis and suggests that cationic nanomaterials can be exploited for treating refractory fibrosis.

Treating acute lung injury through scavenging of cell-free DNA by cationic nanoparticles

Acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome are life-threatening conditions induced by inflammatory responses, in which cell-free DNA (cfDNA) plays a pivotal role. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of biodegradable cationic nanoparticles (cNPs) in alleviating ALI. Using a mouse model of lipopolysaccharide-induced ALI, we examined the impact of intravenously administered cNPs. Our findings indicate that cNPs possess robust DNA binding capability, enhanced accumulation in inflamed lungs, and a favorable safety profile in vivo. Furthermore, cNPs attenuate the inflammatory response in LPS-induced ALI mice by scavenging cfDNA, mainly derived from neutrophil extracellular traps, and activating the macrophage-mediated cGAS-STING pathway. The findings suggest a potential treatment for ALI by targeting cfDNA with cNPs. This approach has demonstrated efficacy in mitigating lung injury and merits further exploration.

Feedback delivery of BMP 7 on the pathological oxidative stress via smart hyaluronic acid hydrogel potentiated the repairing of the gut epithelial integrity

The intestinal barrier integrity was substantially collapsed when colitis flaring up, accompanying by the hallmark of pathological oxidative stress. Bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP 7), an endogenous growth factor in gut had the potential to repair the damaged mucosa. Herein, a smart hydrogel (HDP) had been developed by the boronate-ester crosslinked hyaluronic acid to deliver BMP 7. Hydrogel loading BMP 7 (HDP-BMP 7) presented the comparable mechanical strength with that of the naïve gut mucus. HDP-BMP 7 as artificial mucus could specifically adhere to the inflamed colonic mucosa of colitis mice. Importantly, it could apperceive reactive oxygen species at diseased colon to adapt its intrinsic network, enabling the feedback release of BMP 7 on the pathological oxidative stress. Moreover, in vivo animal experiments showed that the disease symptoms of colitis mice were alleviated by HDP-BMP 7. Importantly, both the mucus barrier and the epithelial barriers were obviously recovered by HDP-BMP 7 treatment, which substantially attenuated the immune-inflammation response of colitis mice. Besides, HDP-BMP 7 enriched the diversity of gut flora, increasing the relative abundance of Lactobacillus and decreasing the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes. Its therapeutic mechanism was associated with activating TGF-β/Smad signals. Conclusively, this smart hydrogel might potentiate the repairing effect of growth factors on the gut epithelial integrity.

Advances in research on the role of high carbohydrate diet in the process of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, systemic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by episodic inflammation that requires life-long management. Although the etiology of IBD is not fully understood, it is hypothesized to involve a multifaceted interplay among genetic susceptibility, the host immune response, and environmental factors. Previous studies have largely concluded that IBD is associated with this complex interplay; however, more recent evidence underscores the significant role of dietary habits as risk factors for the development of IBD. In this review, we review the molecular mechanisms of high-sugar and high-fat diets in the progression of IBD and specifically address the impacts of these diets on the gut microbiome, immune system regulation, and integrity of the intestinal barrier, thereby highlighting their roles in the pathogenesis and exacerbation of IBD.

Designing for medication adherence in inflammatory bowel disease: multi-disciplinary approaches for self-administrable biotherapeutics

Biotherapeutics are among the therapeutics that have revolutionized standard inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treatment, which was previously limited to mesalamine, 5-aminosalicylic acid, corticosteroids, and classical immunosuppressants. Self-administrable biotherapeutics for IBD would enable home-based treatment and reduce the burden on medical infrastructure. Self-administration is made possible through subcutaneous injectable, oral, and rectal dosage forms. Nevertheless, the full benefits of self-administration cannot be realized without first addressing the issue of medication adherence, which remains woefully inadequate for IBD biotherapies. Some of the major barriers to medication adherence in IBD are the route of administration, frequency of administration, and undesired side effects. In this review, we identify the main physiological and engineering constraints that underlie these three barriers to adherence. We then highlight key technological and behavioral innovations-spanning multiple scientific disciplines-that can be leveraged to design novel therapies and interventions that improve adherence to self-administered IBD biotherapies.

ROS/Thermo dual-sensitive hydrogel loaded with a nanoemulsion of patchouli essential oil for ulcerative colitis

Patchouli essential oil (PEO) is acknowledged as a potent contender for the management of ulcerative colitis (UC). However, the limited ability of PEO to be absorbed by the body and its low stability substantially limit its potential uses. Furthermore, UC lesions are mainly concentrated in the rectal and colonic mucosa, with excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Herein, a nanoemulsion of PEO (PEONE) was developed to enhance the stability and bioavailability of a drug. Subsequently, we developed a novel platform for the rectal administration of a ROS/thermo dual-sensitive Bletilla striata polysaccharide-based hydrogel (RTH) co-loaded with PEONE to efficiently treat UC. As expected, the sol-gel transition of PEONE@RTH, after its intrarectal administration, resulted in its extended presence in the colon and facilitated its attachment to the inflammation site. Moreover, PEONE@RTH alleviated dextran sulfate sodium-induced UC symptoms by suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress, repairing the damage to the intestinal epithelial barrier (claudin-1 and occludin), increasing short-chain fatty acid content and inhibiting the MAPK signalling pathway. Additionally, PEONE@RTH exhibits exceptional safety and biocompatibility. Thus, PEONE@RTH has the potential to provide a novel approach for treating UC and other intestinal disorders characterised by similar clinical conditions.

Synthetic polypeptides inhibit nucleic acid-induced inflammation in autoimmune diseases by disrupting multivalent TLR9 binding to LL37-DNA bundles

Complexes of extracellular nucleic acids (NAs) with endogenous proteins or peptides, such as LL37, break immune balance and cause autoimmune diseases, whereas NAs with arginine-enriched peptides do not. Inspired by this, we synthesize a polyarginine nanoparticle PEG-TK-NPArg, which effectively inhibits Toll-like receptor-9 (TLR9) activation, in contrast to LL37. To explore the discrepancy effect of PEG-TK-NPArg and LL37, we evaluate the periodic structure of PEG-TK-NPArg-NA and LL37-NA complexes using small-angle X-ray scattering. LL37-NA complexes have a larger inter-NA spacing that accommodates TLR9, while the inter-NA spacing in PEG-TK-NPArg-NA complexes mismatches with the cavity of TLR9, thus inhibiting an interaction with multiple TLR9s, limiting their clustering and damping immune induction. Subsequently, the inhibitory inflammation effect of PEG-TK-NPArg is proved in an animal model of rheumatoid arthritis. This work on how the scavenger-NA complexes inhibit the immune response may facilitate proof-of-concept research translating to clinical application.

Exosomal Drug Delivery Systems: A Novel Therapy Targeting PD-1 in Septic-ALI

BACKGROUND

The cytokine storm triggered by sepsis can lead to the development of acute lung injury (ALI). Human umbilical cord Mesenchymal stem cells derived exosomes (HucMSCs-EXOs) have been demonstrated to possess immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties. Programmed cell death receptor 1 (PD-1) plays a crucial role in maintaining the inflammatory immune homeostasis. The aim of this study is to investigate the synergistic therapeutic effect of EXOs loaded with anti-PD-1 peptide on septic-ALI.

METHODS

This study prepares a novel EXOs-based drug, named MEP, by engineering modification of HucMSCs-EXOs, which are non-immunogenic extracellular vesicles, loaded with anti-PD-1 peptide. The therapeutic effect and potential mechanism of MEP on septic-ALI are elucidated through in vivo and in vitro experiments, providing experimental evidence for the treatment of septic acute lung injury with MEP.

RESULTS

We found that, compared to individual components (anti-PD-1 peptide or EXOs), MEP treatment can more effectively improve the lung injury index of septic-ALI mice, significantly reduce the expression levels of inflammatory markers CRP and PCT, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β in serum, decrease lung cell apoptosis, and significantly increase the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and CD68+ macrophages. In vitro, MEP co-culture promotes the proliferation of CD206+ macrophages, increases the M2/M1 macrophage ratio, and attenuates the inflammatory response. GEO data analysis and qRT-PCR validation show that MEP reduces the expression of inflammasome-related genes and M1 macrophage marker iNOS.

CONCLUSION

In both in vitro and in vivo settings, MEP demonstrates superior therapeutic efficacy compared to individual components in the context of septic-ALI.

Plant-inspired visible-light-driven bioenergetic hydrogels for chronic wound healing

Chronic bioenergetic imbalances and inflammation caused by hyperglycemia are obstacles that delay diabetic wound healing. However, it is difficult to directly deliver energy and metabolites to regulate intracellular energy metabolism using biomaterials. Herein, we propose a light-driven bioenergetic and oxygen-releasing hydrogel (PTKM@HG) that integrates the thylakoid membrane-encapsulated polyphenol nanoparticles (PTKM NPs) to regulate the energy metabolism and inflammatory response in diabetic wounds. Upon red light irradiation, the PTKM NPs exhibited oxygen generation and H2O2 deletion capacity through a photosynthetic effect to restore hypoxia-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Meanwhile, the PTKM NPs could produce exogenous ATP and NADPH to enhance mitochondrial function and facilitate cellular anabolism by regulating the leucine-activated mTOR signaling pathway. Furthermore, the PTKM NPs inherited antioxidative and anti-inflammatory ability from polyphenol. Finally, the red light irradiated PTKM@HG hydrogel augmented the survival and migration of cells keratinocytes, and then accelerated angiogenesis and re-epithelialization of diabetic wounds. In short, this study provides possibilities for effectively treating diseases by delivering key metabolites and energy based on such a light-driven bioenergetic hydrogel.

Inflammation-Responsive Polyion Complex Vesicles for Autoimmune Disease Therapy via Cell-Free DNA Scavenging and Inflammatory Microenvironment Modulation

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) scavenging represents a promising anti-inflammatory modality for autoimmune disease (AID) treatment. However, it remains challenging for existing systems to achieve inflammation-targeted cfDNA scavenging and the management of cfDNA-unrelated inflammatory pathways. Herein, inflammation-responsive polyion complex vesicles (PICsomes) are developed, bridging inflammation-instructed cfDNA scavenging, and methotrexate (MTX) delivery for AID management. A positively charged, PEGylated polypeptide with guanidine side chains (PEG-PG) is developed, which self-assembles with a negatively charged, cis-aconitic anhydride-modified poly-L-lysine (PC) to form the PICsomes and encapsulate MTX disodium salt. The neutrally charged PICsomes feature prolonged blood circulation after systemic administration, allowing for passive accumulation to the inflamed tissues. In the slightly acidic inflammatory microenvironment, PC transforms from negatively charged to positively charged, thereby disintegrating the PICsomes and liberating the PEG-PG and MTX. Consequently, PEG-PG-mediated cfDNA scavenging and MTX-mediated immunosuppression cooperate to inhibit inflammation and ameliorate the inflammatory microenvironment, promoting tissue repair in AID mouse models including collagen-induced arthritis and 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid-induced colitis.

Oral Administration of Bioactive Nanoparticulates for Inflammatory Bowel Disease Therapy by Mitigating Oxidative Stress and Restoring Intestinal Microbiota Homeostasis

The management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) continues to pose significant challenges due to the absence of curative therapies and a high rate of recurrence. Therefore, it is imperative to explore novel approaches to enhance the efficacy of IBD therapy. Herein, a bioactive nanoparticulate s is tailored designed to achieve a "Pull-Push" approach for efficient and safe IBD treatment by integrating reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging (Pull) with anti-inflammatory agent delivery (Push) in the inflammatory microenvironment. The multifunctional nanomedicine, designated MON-PAMAM@SASP, is developed through the encapsulation of sulfasalazine (SASP), a widely utilized clinical drug for the treatment of IBD, within cationic diselenide-bridged mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles (MONs) that possess significant antioxidant properties. Herein, poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) endows the original MONs with positive charge characteristics. The MON-PAMAM@SASP not only displays the remarkable capability of neutralizing ROS to ameliorates intestinal damage, but also achieves controllable release of SASP to mitigate intestinal inflammation. Consequently, this nanomedicine effectively mitigates IBD by colitis in mouse models, and our current research has not identified any significant drug toxicity. Beyond regulating inflammatory microenvironment in intestine, treatment with MON-PAMAM@SASP results in increased richness and restores intestinal microbiota homeostasis, thereby mitigating IBD to a certain extent. Together, our work provides a highly versatile "Pull-Push" approach for IBD management and encourages the development of similar nanomedicine to treating multiple inflammatory diseases of gastrointestinal tract.

Microenvironment-responsive nanomedicines: a promising direction for tissue regeneration

Severe tissue defects present formidable challenges to human health, persisting as major contributors to mortality rates. The complex pathological microenvironment, particularly the disrupted immune landscape within these defects, poses substantial hurdles to existing tissue regeneration strategies. However, the emergence of nanobiotechnology has opened a new direction in immunomodulatory nanomedicine, providing encouraging prospects for tissue regeneration and restoration. This review aims to gather recent advances in immunomodulatory nanomedicine to foster tissue regeneration. We begin by elucidating the distinctive features of the local immune microenvironment within defective tissues and its crucial role in tissue regeneration. Subsequently, we explore the design and functional properties of immunomodulatory nanosystems. Finally, we address the challenges and prospects of clinical translation in nanomedicine development, aiming to propose a potent approach to enhance tissue regeneration through synergistic immune modulation and nanomedicine integration.

Curcumin-incorporated EGCG-based nano-antioxidants alleviate colon and kidney inflammation via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory therapy

Natural remedies are gaining attention as promising approaches to alleviating inflammation, yet their full potential is often limited by challenges such as poor bioavailability and suboptimal therapeutic effects. To overcome these limitations, we have developed a novel nano-antioxidant (EK) based on epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) aimed at enhancing the oral and systemic bioavailability, as well as the anti-inflammatory efficacy, of curcumin (Cur) in conditions such as acute colon and kidney inflammation. EK is synthesized using a straightforward Mannich reaction between EGCG and L-lysine (K), resulting in the formation of EGCG oligomers. These oligomers spontaneously self-assemble into nanoparticles with a spherical morphology and an average diameter of approximately 160 nm. In vitro studies reveal that EK nanoparticles exhibit remarkable radical-scavenging capabilities and effectively regulate redox processes within macrophages, a key component in the body's inflammatory response. By efficiently encapsulating curcumin within these EK nanoparticles, we create Cur@EK, a formulation that demonstrates a synergistic anti-inflammatory effect. Specifically, Cur@EK significantly reduces the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 while increasing the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages, highlighting its potent anti-inflammatory properties. When administered either orally or intravenously, Cur@EK shows superior bioavailability compared to free curcumin and exhibits pronounced anti-inflammatory effects in mouse models of ulcerative colitis and acute kidney injury. These findings suggest that the EK nano-antioxidant platform not only enhances the bioavailability of curcumin but also amplifies its therapeutic impact, offering a promising new avenue for the treatment and management of inflammation in both oral and systemic contexts.

Oral administration of Sophora Flavescens-derived exosomes-like nanovesicles carrying CX5461 ameliorates DSS-induced colitis in mice

Ulcerative colitis (UC) belongs to chronic inflammatory disease with a relapsing characterization. Conventional oral drugs of UC are restricted in clinical by premature degradation in the gastrointestinal tract, modest efficacy, and adverse effects. CX5461 can treat autoimmune disease, immunological rejection, and vascular inflammation. However, low solubility, intravenous administration, and non-inflammatory targeting limited its clinical application. Herein, this work aims to develop Sophora Flavescens-derived exosomes-like nanovesicles carrying CX5461 (SFELNVs@CX5461) for efficient CX5461 oral delivery for UC therapy. We identified SFELNVs as nano-diameter (80 nm) with negative zeta potential (-32mV). Cellular uptake has shown that SFELNVs were targeted uptake by macrophages, thus increasing drug concentration. Additionally, oral SFELNVs@CX5461 exhibited good safety and stability, as well as inflammation-targeting ability in the gastrointestinal tract of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis mice. In vivo, oral administration of SFELNVs and CX5461 could relieve mice colitis. More importantly, combined SFELNVs and CX5461 alleviated mice colitis by inhibiting pro-inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) expression and promoting M2 macrophage polarization. Furthermore, SFELNVs promoted M2 polarization by miR4371c using miRNA sequencing. Our results suggest that SFELNVs@CX5461 represents a novel orally therapeutic drug that can ameliorate colitis, and a promising targeting strategy for safe UC therapy.

Bioorthogonal conjugation and responsive nanocoating of probiotics for inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is closely associated with dysregulated immune response, gut mucosal barrier, and microbiota. Conventional treatments suffer from inferior bioavailability and inadequate efficiency. Herein, we present a synergistic therapeutic strategy based on multifunctionalized probiotics to mitigate IBD through single oral administration. The probiotic (Escherichia coli Nissle 1917) is bioorthogonally conjugated with immunomodulators and subsequently encapsulated by an enteric coating. The viability and bioactivity of probiotics are not affected by the modifications. And the armored probiotics are able to resist the harsh environment of the stomach and shed their enteric coating in the intestinal tract, exposing immunomodulators to polarize pro-inflammatory M1-type macrophages into anti-inflammatory M2-type. In a mouse colitis model, orally administered multifunctionalized probiotics cooperatively alleviate IBD with increased body weight to 1.13 folds and decreased disease activity index to 0.43 folds, through downregulating the pro-inflammatory cytokines expression, upregulating the epithelial tight junction-associated proteins levels to restore the intestinal barrier, and increasing the microbiota richness and abundance. This work exhibits a feasible approach to construct functionalized orally administered probiotics for enhanced synergistic therapy of IBD.

Glycerol monolaurate regulates apoptosis and inflammation by suppressing lipopolysaccharide-induced ROS production and NF-κB activation in avian macrophages

Macrophages play a crucial role in both innate and adaptive immunity. However, their abnormal activation can lead to undesirable inflammatory reactions. This study aimed to investigate the effects of glycerol monolaurate (GML), a natural monoester known for its anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties, on avian macrophages using the HD11 cell line. The results indicated that a concentration of 10 μg/mL of GML enhanced the phagocytic activity of HD11 cells (P < 0.05) without affecting cell viability (P > 0.05). GML decreased the expression of M1 macrophage polarization markers, such as CD86 and TNF-α genes (P < 0.05), while increasing the expression of M2 macrophage polarization markers, such as TGF-β1 and IL-10 genes (P < 0.05). GML suppressed ROS production, apoptosis, and the expression of proinflammatory genes (IL-1β and IL-6) induced by LPS (P < 0.05). GML also promoted the expression of TGF-β1 and IL-10 (P < 0.05), both in the presence and absence of LPS exposure. Moreover, GML suppressed the gene expression of TLR4 and NF-κB p65 induced by LPS (P < 0.05), as well as the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 (P < 0.05). In conclusion, GML exhibited regulatory effects on the polarized state of avian macrophages and demonstrated significant anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory properties by suppressing intracellular ROS and the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Capture and Storage of Cell-Free DNA via Bio-Informational Hydrogel Microspheres

Excessive cell-free DNA (cfDNA) can induce chronic inflammation by activating intracellular nucleic acid sensors. Intervention in cfDNA-mediated "pro-inflammatory signaling transduction" could be a potential alleviating strategy for chronic inflammation, such as in diabetic wounds. However, effectively and specifically downgrading cfDNA concentration in the pathological microenvironment remains a challenge. Therefore, this work prepares free-standing polydopamine nanosheets through DNA-guided assembly and loaded them into microfluidic hydrogel microspheres. The π─π stacking/hydrogen bonding interactions between polydopamine nanosheets and the π-rich bases of cfDNA, along with the cage-like spatial confinement created by the hydrogel polymer network, achieved cfDNA capture and storage, respectively. Catechol in polydopamine nanosheets can also assist in reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Efficient cfDNA binding independent of serum proteins, specific interdiction of abnormal activation of cfDNA-associated toll-like receptor 9, as well as down-regulation of inflammatory cytokines and ROS levels are shown in this system. The chronic inflammation alleviating and the pro-healing effects on the mice model with diabetic wounds are also investigated. This work presents a new strategy for capturing and storing cfDNA to intervene in cell signaling transduction. It also offers new insights into the regulatory mechanisms between inflammatory mediators and biomaterials in inflammation-related diseases.

Design strategies, advances and future perspectives of colon-targeted delivery systems for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) significantly contribute to high mortality globally and negatively affect patients' qualifications of life. The gastrointestinal tract has unique anatomical characteristics and physiological environment limitations. Moreover, certain natural or synthetic anti-inflammatory drugs are associated with poor targeting, low drug accumulation at the lesion site, and other side effects, hindering them from exerting their therapeutic effects. Colon-targeted drug delivery systems represent attractive alternatives as novel carriers for IBD treatment. This review mainly discusses the treatment status of IBD, obstacles to drug delivery, design strategies of colon-targeted delivery systems, and perspectives on the existing complementary therapies. Moreover, based on recent reports, we summarized the therapeutic mechanism of colon-targeted drug delivery. Finally, we addressed the challenges and future directions to facilitate the exploitation of advanced nanomedicine for IBD therapy.

Therapeutic Effects of PEG-Modified Polyamide Amine Dendrimer for Cell Free DNA Adsorption in Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis

Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ OA) is characterized by the degeneration of cartilage and subchondral bone. In this study, we observed a significant increase in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) levels during the progression of TMJ OA. Bioinformatics analysis identified TLR9 as a pivotal molecule in TMJ OA pathogenesis. The polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer characterized by a well-structured, highly branched, and reactive nature, exhibits robust binding and clearance capabilities for cfDNA. However, the abundant amino groups on the surface of PAMAM lead to its inherent toxicity. To mitigate this, PEG-5000 was conjugated to the surface of PAMAM dendrimers, enhancing safety. Our results indicate that PEG-PAMAM effectively inhibits the upregulation of the TLR9 protein in TMJ OA, significantly suppressing the activation of the p-IκBα/p-NF-κB signaling pathway and subsequently decreasing chondrocyte inflammation and apoptosis, as evidenced by both in vivo and in vitro experiments. We conclude that PEG-PAMAM is a safe and effective material for in vivo applications, offering a promising therapeutic strategy for TMJ OA by targeting cfDNA clearance.

Therapeutic effect and mechanism of Ento-PB on ulcerative colitis in BALB/c mice induced by sodium dextran sulfate

The traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula Ento-PB containing Periplaneta americana (Linnaeus) (Blattidae) and Taraxacum mongolicum Hand.-Mazz. (Compositae) has great potential for treating inflammation. Thus, this study aimed to explore the pharmacodynamic effect of Ento-PB on DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in BALB/c mice, and its effects on immune function, JAK2/STAT3-related signaling pathways and intestinal flora in UC mice. It was identified that the extract Ento-PB mainly contained 20 compounds, accounting for 78.50 % of the total peak area. Compared with the model group, each dose group of Ento-PB could reduce the DAI score, colon index, CMDI score and colon HS score of mice to varying degrees (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Ento-PB can reduce the content of IL-1β, TNF-α, IFN-γ in serum and IL-7 and IL-17 in colonic tissue, and increase IL-2, IL-10 in serum and EGF in colonic mucosa, TGF-β1 expression level (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). In conclusion, Ento-PB has a good therapeutic effect on DSS-induced UC mice. Its mechanism of action may be to up-regulate the levels of IL-2, IL-10, EGF, IL-22 and TGF-β1, and down-regulate the levels of TNF-α,IFN-γ, IL-7 and IL-17 in UC mice. This provides sufficient experimental basis for the clinical treatment of UC with Ento-PB.

Artificial mucus layer formed in response to ROS for the oral treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

The artificial mucus layer, such as hydrogels, used to repair the damaged intestinal barrier, is a promising treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the currently reported hydrogel-based artificial barriers are administered via rectal injection, causing unnecessary discomfort to patients. Herein, we report an oral hydrogel precursor solution based on thiol-modified hyaluronic acid (HASH). Owing to the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive gelling behavior, our precursor solution formed an artificial mucus coating over the inflamed regions of the intestines, blocking microbial invasion and reducing abnormally activated immune responses. Notably, HASH also modulated the gut microbiota, including increasing the diversity and enhancing the abundance of short-chain fatty acid-associated bacteria, which play a key role in gut homeostasis. We believe that the ROS-responsive artificial mucus layer is a promising strategy for the oral treatment of IBD.

"Two-birds-one-stone" oral nanotherapeutic designed to target intestinal integrins and regulate redox homeostasis for UC treatment

Designing highly efficient orally administrated nanotherapeutics with specific inflammatory site-targeting functions in the gastrointestinal tract for ulcerative colitis (UC) management is a noteworthy challenge. Here, we focused on exploring a specific targeting oral nanotherapy, serving as "one stone," for the directed localization of inflammation and the regulation of redox homeostasis, thereby achieving effects against "two birds" for UC treatment. Our designed nanotherapeutic agent OPNs@LMWH (oxidation-sensitive ε-polylysine nanoparticles at low-molecular weight heparin) exhibited specific active targeting effects and therapeutic efficacy simultaneously. Our results indicate that OPNs@LMWH had high integrin αM-mediated immune cellular uptake efficiency and preferentially accumulated in inflamed tissues. We also confirmed its effectiveness in the treatment experiment of colitis in mice by ameliorating oxidative stress and inhibiting the activation of inflammation-associated signaling pathways while simultaneously bolstering the protective mechanisms of the colonic epithelium. Overall, these findings underscore the compelling dual functionalities of OPNs@LMWH, which enable effective oral delivery to inflamed sites, thereby facilitating precise UC management.

2D Is Better: Engineering Polydopamine into Cationic Nanosheets to Enhance Anti-Inflammatory Capability

Polydopamine nanomaterials have emerged as one of the most popular organic materials for the management of oxidative stress-mediated inflammatory diseases. However, their current anti-inflammatory ability is still unsatisfactory because of limited phenolic hydroxyl groups, and oxidation reaction-medicated reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) scavenging. Herein, via fusing dimension engineering and surface charge engineering, 2D cationic polydopamine nanosheets (PDA NSs) capable of scavenging multiple danger signals to enhance anti-inflammatory capability are reported. Compared with conventional spherical polydopamine nanoparticles, 2D PDA NSs exhibit three- to fourfold enhancement in RONS scavenging capability, which should be attributed to high specific surface area and abundant phenol groups of 2D ultrathin structure. To further enhance the anti-inflammatory ability, polylysine molecules are absorbed on the surface of PDA NSs to endow the scavenging capability of cell-free DNA (cfDNA), another typical inflammatory factor to exacerbate the pathogenesis of inflammation. Molecular mechanisms reveal that cationic PDA NSs can concurrently activate Keap1-Nrf2 and block TLR9 signaling pathway, achieving synergistical inflammation inhibition. As a proof of concept, cationic PDA NSs with RONS and cfDNA dual-scavenging capability effectively alleviate the inflammatory bowel disease in both delayed and prophylactic models, much better than the clinical drug 5-aminosalicylic acid.

pH and redox dual response nano-suppository for the treatment of ulcerative colitis

To improve treatment compliance and reach sustained and controlled drug release in the colon, we developed a hollow mesoporous silica nano-suppository that responded to both pH and redox stimuli. Firstly, we prepared hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles containing disulfide bonds (HMSN-SS) and loaded them with 5-ASA. Secondly, we modified the surface of HMSN-SS with polydopamine (PDA) and chitosan (CS) and molded the suppository, which we named 5-ASA@HMSN-SS-PDA-CS (5-ASA@HSPC). By administering 5-ASA@HSPC rectally, it acted directly on the affected area. CS helped the nanoparticles adhere to the colon's surface, while PDA dissociates from HMSN-SS due to protonation in the acidic environment of the ulcerative colon. The disulfide bonds were destroyed by the reducing environment of the colon, leading to a stable and slow release of encapsulated 5-ASA from the pores of HMSN. Finally, in vitro release experiments and in vivo pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic experiments had demonstrated that 5-ASA@HSPC exhibited a slow and steady action at the colonic site, with an excellent safety profile. This novel approach showed great potential in the treatment of ulcerative colitis.

Bioinspired and bioderived nanomedicine for inflammatory bowel disease

Due to its chronic nature and complex pathophysiology, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) poses significant challenges for treatment. The long-term therapies for patients, often diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40, call for innovative strategies to target inflammation, minimize systemic drug exposure, and improve patients' therapeutic outcomes. Among the plethora of strategies currently pursued, bioinspired and bioderived nano-based formulations have garnered interest for their safety and versatility in the management of IBD. Bioinspired nanomedicine can host and deliver not only small drug molecules but also biotherapeutics, be made gastroresistant and mucoadhesive or mucopenetrating and, for these reasons, are largely investigated for oral administration, while surprisingly less for rectal delivery, recommended first-line treatment approach for several IBD patients. The use of bioderived nanocarriers, mostly extracellular vesicles (EVs), endowed with unique homing abilities, is still in its infancy with respect to the arsenal of nanomedicine under investigation for IBD treatment. An emerging source of EVs suited for oral administration is ingesta, that is, plants or milk, thanks to their remarkable ability to resist the harsh environment of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Inspired by the unparalleled properties of natural biomaterials, sophisticated avenues for enhancing therapeutic efficacy and advancing precision medicine approaches in IBD care are taking shape, although bottlenecks arising either from the complexity of the nanomedicine designed or from the lack of a clear regulatory pathway still hinder a smooth and efficient translation to the clinics. This article is categorized under: Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology.

Transcription factor EB modulates the homeostasis of reactive oxygen species in intestinal epithelial cells to alleviate inflammatory bowel disease

Transcription factor EB (TFEB), a master lysosomal biogenesis and autophagy regulator, is crucial for cellular homeostasis, and its abnormality is related to diverse inflammatory diseases. Genetic variations in autophagic genes are associated with susceptibility to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); however, little is known about the role and mechanism of TFEB in disease pathogenesis. In this study, we found that the genetic deletion of TFEB in mouse intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) caused intestinal barrier dysfunction, leading to increased susceptibility to experimental colitis. Mechanistically, TFEB functionally protected IEC in part through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1alpha (TFEB-PGC1α axis) induction, which consequently suppressed reactive oxygen species. TFEB can directly regulate PGC-1α transcription to control antioxidation level. Notably, TFEB expression is impaired and downregulated in the colon tissues of IBD patients. Collectively, our results indicate that intestinal TFEB participates in oxidative stress regulation and attenuates IBD progression.

Probiotics Armed with In Situ Mineralized Nanocatalysts and Targeted Biocoatings for Multipronged Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

While oral probiotics show promise in treating inflammatory bowel disease, the primary challenge lies in sustaining their activity and retention within the inflamed gastrointestinal environment. In this work, we develop an engineered probiotic platform that is armed with biocatalytic and inflamed colon-targeting nanocoatings for multipronged management of IBD. Notably, we achieve the in situ growth of artificial nanocatalysts on probiotics through a bioinspired mineralization strategy. The resulting ferrihydrite nanostructures anchored on bacteria exhibit robust catalase-like activity across a broad pH range, effectively scavenging ROS to alleviate inflammation. The further envelopment with fucoidan-based shields confers probiotics with additional inflamed colon-targeting functions. Upon oral administration, the engineered probiotics display markedly improved viability and colonization within the inflamed intestine, and they further elicit boosted prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy against colitis through the synergistic interplay of nanocatalysis-based immunomodulation and probiotics-mediated microbiota reshaping. The robust and multifunctional probiotic platforms offer great potential for the comprehensive management of gastrointestinal disorders.

Functional 2D Nanoplatforms Alleviate Eosinophilic Chronic Rhinosinusitis by Modulating Eosinophil Extracellular Trap Formation

The therapeutic outcomes of patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis (ECRS) remain unsatisfactory, largely because the underlying mechanisms of eosinophilic inflammation are uncertain. Here, it is shown that the nasal secretions of ECRS patients have high eosinophil extracellular trap (EET) and cell-free DNA (cfDNA) levels. Moreover, the cfDNA induced EET formation by activating toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) signaling. After demonstrating that DNase I reduced eosinophilic inflammation by modulating EET formation, linear polyglycerol-amine (LPGA)-coated TiS2 nanosheets (TLPGA) as functional 2D nanoplatforms with low cytotoxicity, mild protein adsorption, and increased degradation rate is developed. Due to the more flexible linear architecture, TLPGA exhibited higher cfDNA affinity than the TiS2 nanosheets coated with dendritic polyglycerol-amine (TDPGA). TLPGA reduced cfDNA levels in the nasal secretions of ECRS patients while suppressing cfDNA-induced TLR9 activation and EET formation in vitro. TLPGA displayed exceptional biocompatibility, preferential nasal localization, and potent inflammation modulation in mice with eosinophilic inflammation. These results highlight the pivotal feature of the linear molecular architecture and 2D sheet-like nanostructure in the development of anti-inflammation nanoplatforms, which can be exploited for ECRS treatment.