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Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Fluorescence-mediated Tomography for the Detection and Quantification of Macrophage-related Murine Intestinal Inflammation
Published on: December 15, 2017
Nanoparticles in inflammatory bowel disease: particle targeting versus pH-sensitive delivery
Yvette Meissner1, Yann Pellequer, Alf Lamprecht
1Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Place Saint Jacques, University of Franche-Comté, F-25030 Besançon Cedex, France.
Tacrolimus nanoparticles (NP) effectively treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with reduced side effects. Nanoparticle formulations showed promise in mitigating colitis and decreasing nephrotoxicity compared to traditional drug solutions.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Nanotechnology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Tacrolimus is effective for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- Current treatments carry risks of severe adverse effects.
- Targeted drug delivery can enhance efficacy and tolerability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate tacrolimus nanoparticles (NP) for localized IBD treatment.
- To compare biodegradable (PLGA) and pH-sensitive (Eudragit) NP formulations.
- To assess therapeutic effects and reduce adverse events.
Main Methods:
- Tacrolimus-loaded nanoparticles were prepared using oil/water emulsification.
- Biodegradable poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and pH-sensitive Eudragit P-4135F were used.
- Therapeutic efficacy was tested in a dextran sulfate-induced mouse colitis model.
Main Results:
- All tacrolimus formulations reduced clinical activity score and myeloperoxidase activity.
- Nanoparticle formulations were superior to oral drug solution but less effective than subcutaneous solution.
- Nanoparticle administration reduced nephrotoxicity compared to tacrolimus solution.
Conclusions:
- Tacrolimus nanoparticles demonstrate potential for localized IBD treatment.
- Both PLGA and Eudragit NP formulations showed therapeutic benefits.
- pH-sensitive nanoparticles may offer a slight advantage in reducing nephrotoxic effects.
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