Preparation of Oral Core-Shell Zein Nanoparticles to Improve the Bioavailability of Glycyrrhizic Acid for the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis

Biomacromolecules. 2022 Jan 10;23(1):210-225. doi: 10.1021/acs.biomac.1c01233. Epub 2021 Dec 14.

Abstract

In this study, oral colon-targeted adhesion core-shell nanoparticles were designed by applying FA-Zein as the core and using pectin as the shell to enhance the low bioavailability exhibited by glycyrrhizic acid (GA) and the anti-inflammatory effect in specific parts of the intestine. As indicated by the results, the nanoparticles (NPs) remained stable in the stomach and small intestine, while pectins began to degrade and release GA in considerable amounts in the colon with the abundant flora. Subsequently, folate-acid targeting was further assessed with Raw 264.7 and NCM 460 cells. Lastly, NPs were reported to exhibit high adhesion on the colon by using the DSS-induced ulcerative colitis mouse model. Moreover, as indicated by in vitro and in vivo studies, nanoparticles could decrease the levels of MPO and TNF-α by reducing macrophages and neutrophils. In brief, this study provides an ideal loaded natural anti-inflammatory drug delivery system to treat ulcerative colitis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biological Availability
  • Colitis, Ulcerative* / drug therapy
  • Glycyrrhizic Acid / adverse effects
  • Mice
  • Nanoparticles*
  • Zein*

Substances

  • Glycyrrhizic Acid
  • Zein