Nutritional trace elements influence the pathogenesis and resolution of inflammatory bowel disease

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Immunology
• Nutritional Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition influenced by genetic, environmental, and immune factors.
• Trace elements like selenium, copper, zinc, iron, and magnesium play critical roles in IBD pathogenesis.
• Imbalances in these elements affect oxidative stress, immune responses, and gut barrier function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the role of five key trace elements in IBD.
• To explore their impact on disease progression and potential therapeutic applications.
• To assess the potential of element-based nanomaterials in IBD treatment.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature on trace elements and IBD.
• Analysis of the mechanisms by which trace elements influence IBD pathology.
• Evaluation of preclinical data on nanomaterial-based therapies for IBD.

Main Results:

• Selenium, copper, zinc, iron, and magnesium significantly impact IBD by regulating oxidative stress, immune cell function, and gut microbiota.
• Deficiencies or imbalances in these elements exacerbate IBD, while targeted supplementation shows therapeutic promise.
• Nanomaterials utilizing these elements demonstrate efficacy in preclinical models, improving targeting and bioavailability.

Conclusions:

• Maintaining trace element balance is a viable auxiliary strategy for IBD management.
• Element-based nanomaterials offer novel therapeutic avenues, though clinical translation faces hurdles.
• Future research should focus on intelligent delivery systems and personalized medicine for precise IBD treatment.