Enteric-coated cerium dioxide nanoparticles for effective inflammatory bowel disease treatment by regulating the redox balance and gut microbiome

Abstract

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play crucial roles in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by disrupting the mucosal barrier and subsequently leading to the dysregulation of the gut microbiome. Therefore, ROS scavengers present a promising and comprehensive strategy for the effective IBD treatment. In the current work, we explored the therapeutic potential of cerium dioxide (CeO₂) nano-enzyme, which is well-known for their potent antioxidant properties and capability to mimic natural antioxidant enzymes in the regulation of oxidative stress. We developed a novel enteric-coated nanomedicine (CeO₂@S100) aiming at improving the oral delivery efficacy of CeO₂ in the complex gastrointestinal environment. CeO₂@S100 is composed of a CeO₂ nanoparticle core and a protective polyacrylic acid resin shell (Eudragit S100), ensuring targeted delivery of the core specifically at inflamed intestinal sites due to the negative surface charge. In vivo experiments revealed CeO₂@S100 significantly alleviates the IBD by balancing oxidative stress and regulating gut microbiota in a dextran sulfate sodium-induced mouse colitis model. The uncomplicated synthesis of CeO₂@S100 highlights its promise for clinical use, presenting an effective and safe approach to managing IBD.