Synergistic Regulation of Ferroptosis via an Oral Solid Lipid Nanocomplex-Embedded Inulin Gel for Targeted Ulcerative...

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Nanomedicine
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory colon disorder with limited treatment options.
• Ferroptosis, a type of programmed cell death, plays a significant role in UC development.
• Targeting ferroptosis presents a potential therapeutic strategy for UC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an oral, colon-targeted therapy for UC based on synergistic ferroptosis regulation.
• To investigate the therapeutic efficacy of a solid lipid nanocomplex-embedded inulin gel (SLN/Que&OA@Gel) for UC.

Main Methods:

• Encapsulation of oleic acid (OA) and quercetin (Que) in solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) for enhanced bioavailability.
• Embedding SLNs in an inulin gel matrix for colon targeting and sustained release.
• In vivo evaluation of the SLN/Que&OA@Gel system in a UC model.

Main Results:

• The SLN/Que&OA@Gel system effectively delivered OA and Que to the colon.
• OA modulated lipid composition to reduce ferroptosis, while Que scavenged reactive oxygen species (ROS).
• In vivo studies showed alleviation of intestinal damage, restoration of barrier integrity, and reduced inflammation in UC models.

Conclusions:

• The developed SLN/Que&OA@Gel system offers a synergistic approach to regulate ferroptosis and remodel the microenvironment.
• This strategy presents a promising therapeutic avenue for managing ulcerative colitis.
• Colon-targeted delivery and dual drug action enhance therapeutic outcomes for UC.