Nanoparticle-Driven Modulation of Mucosal Immunity and Interplay with the Microbiome

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Microbiology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Mucosal surfaces are crucial for host defense and microbial balance.
• Dysbiosis and immune disruptions are linked to diseases like IBD, asthma, and bacterial vaginosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review nanoparticle (NP)-based strategies for modulating mucosal immunity and microbiota.
• To highlight NP applications in delivering probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics for targeted immunomodulation.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent advances in organic and inorganic NP-based strategies.
• Analysis of NP capabilities in penetrating mucus, facilitating colonization, and modulating cytokines.
• Discussion of NP applications in gastrointestinal, respiratory, and female reproductive mucosal tissues.

Main Results:

• NPs enhance delivery and stability of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics.
• NP strategies improve mucus penetration, microbial colonization, and epithelial barrier restoration.
• NP-based therapies show promise for colitis, respiratory inflammation, and vaginal dysbiosis.

Conclusions:

• NP platforms provide precise modulation of mucosal immunity and microbiota.
• Significant potential exists for NP-based prevention and treatment of mucosal-associated diseases.
• Challenges in biosafety, targeting, and clinical translation require further research.