Inhalable Nano-Astaxanthin for Radiation-Induced Lung Injury via Enhanced Lung Retention and Inflammation Suppression

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Radiotherapy Research

Background:

• Radiation-induced lung injury (RILI) is a serious complication of radiotherapy, involving oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis.
• Astaxanthin (ASX), a natural antioxidant, is limited by poor solubility and bioavailability for RILI treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an inhalable nanoformulation of astaxanthin (ASX@P@CS) to enhance pulmonary delivery and prevent RILI.
• To improve ASX solubility and bioavailability for effective RILI prevention.

Main Methods:

• Created inhalable chitosan-modified PLGA nanoparticles loaded with astaxanthin (ASX@P@CS).
• Evaluated the nanoformulation's intrapulmonary distribution, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic effects in mouse models of RILI.

Main Results:

• ASX@P@CS demonstrated improved ASX solubility and enhanced pulmonary permeability and retention.
• The nanoformulation significantly reduced acute oxidative damage and inflammation.
• Chronic fibrotic remodeling in RILI mouse models was effectively prevented.

Conclusions:

• Chitosan-modified nano-astaxanthin is a biocompatible and safe inhalable platform for RILI prevention.
• This strategy offers a promising approach for clinical application in protecting lungs from radiation damage.