Chitosan Nanoparticle-Encapsulated Cordyceps militaris Grown on Germinated Rhynchosia nulubilis Reduces Type II Alveolar Epithelial Cell Apoptosis in PM2.5-Induced Lung Injury

The study explores the protective effects of chitosan nanoparticle-encapsulated Cordyceps militaris grown on germinated Rhynchosia nulubilis (GCN) against lung injury induced by PM2.5 exposure. In experiments involving 24 female BALB/c mice, GCN was shown to significantly reduce lung damage by decreasing apoptosis in type II alveolar epithelial cells, enhancing lung barrier integrity, and exhibiting antioxidant properties. GCN effectively reduced oxidative stress and inflammation by modulating mRNA expression related to oxidative stress and inflammation, and by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The encapsulation in chitosan nanoparticles improved the bioavailability and efficacy of GCN, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic candidate for preventing and treating PM2.5-induced lung injury.