Zein: Potential biopolymer in inflammatory bowel diseases

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Gastroenterology
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) management is challenging due to its chronic and relapsing nature.
• Personalized medication delivery systems offer potential to enhance therapeutic efficacy and minimize adverse effects of conventional treatments.
• Zein, a biodegradable protein from corn, is emerging as a promising biomaterial for targeted drug delivery in IBD therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state and potential of Zein-based drug delivery systems for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• To highlight the characteristics of Zein that make it suitable for IBD treatment, including biodegradability, controlled release, and biocompatibility.
• To summarize findings on Zein nanoparticles, microcarriers, and microparticles in preclinical IBD models.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating Zein-based drug delivery systems for IBD.
• Analysis of Zein's properties: biodegradability, controlled release kinetics, and biocompatibility.
• Examination of preclinical data on Zein formulations (nanoparticles, microcarriers, core-shell microparticles) in IBD animal models.

Main Results:

• Zein-based systems demonstrate enhanced drug stability and targeted delivery to the intestinal tract.
• Preclinical studies show reduced toxicity of IBD medications when encapsulated in Zein formulations.
• Zein nanoparticles, microcarriers, and core-shell microparticles exhibit potential for improved therapeutic outcomes in IBD models.

Conclusions:

• Zein-based drug delivery systems hold significant promise for personalized therapy in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• The unique properties of Zein support its application in developing advanced IBD treatments.
• Further research is warranted to optimize Zein formulations and facilitate their clinical translation for IBD management.