Researchers at the University of Alabama have developed a bio-engineered molecule using naringenin, a flavonoid naturally found in citrus fruit, to target and treat inflammation. Naringenin is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, but when consumed through food or supplements, it is poorly absorbed. It degrades rapidly in the stomach, and the remaining amount has limited ability to cross the intestinal wall.
The study, published in Science Advances, reports that the research team used a patented method to encase medication in a biodegradable polymer shell created by UA's Drug Research and Engineering for Advanced Medicine Laboratory. The exterior of the shell includes additional naringenin molecules that act as ligands, which bind to specific receptors on cell surfaces in the gut.
Researchers found that naringenin binds effectively to the targeted receptor type, allowing the medicine to pass through the cellular gateway rather than be blocked. According to project lead Meenakshi Arora, "This is the first time a single molecule has been used to both guide and heal." She said the nanoparticles deliver the compound more efficiently and support immune-system regulation.
Using a mouse model with acute kidney injury induced by cisplatin, the researchers reported that the dual-function nanoparticles reduced kidney damage and inflammation, lowered inflammatory markers, and restored immune-cell function. The study found therapeutic effects at half the dose required with conventional formulations.
The research team noted that these results could apply to a broader range of inflammatory conditions, including autoimmune disorders, sepsis, arthritis, and liver disease. Arora said, "Ultimately, this research provides a powerful proof-of-concept for a new class of oral drug delivery systems that could lead to more effective and lower-dose treatments for inflammatory diseases."
Source: Citrus Industry
