In Vitro and In Vivo Characterization of Gold Nanoparticles for Treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The study investigates gold nanoparticles-embedded ceria nanoparticles (Au/CeO2) for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by targeting excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), a key factor in IBD progression. The Au/CeO2 nanoparticles, with enhanced antioxidant activities and a core-shell porous structure, show higher enzymatic catalytic activities than commercial ceria nanoparticles. This is attributed to better exposure of catalytic sites, higher Ce (III) content, and faster reduction from Ce (IV) to Ce (III). Coated with negatively-charged hyaluronic acid, these nanoparticles accumulate in inflamed colon tissues when administered orally, reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, and alleviate colon injury in colitis mice. The Au/CeO2HA demonstrates good biocompatibility, making it a promising nano-therapeutic for IBD treatment.