Cordyceps Militaris Grown on Germinated Rhynchosia Nulubilis Encapsulated in Chitosan Nanoparticle Suppresses Particulate Matter-Induced Lung Inflammation in Mice

The study demonstrates that Cordyceps militaris grown on germinated Rhynchosia nulubilis encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles (GCN) effectively reduces lung inflammation and damage caused by particulate matter (PM) exposure in mice. GCN treatment significantly decreased inflammatory cell infiltration, reduced cytokine mRNA expression levels, and ameliorated lung tissue damage. It also inhibited NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathways and reduced oxidative stress by enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity. The encapsulation in chitosan nanoparticles improved the bioavailability and stability of the bioactive compounds, such as cordycepin and polysaccharides, enhancing their efficacy. The study involved 6 mice per group and suggests GCN's potential as a therapeutic agent for managing PM-induced lung inflammation.