A phlorotannin nanoparticle–hydrogel composite for enhanced oral delivery and treatment of ulcerative colitis

studies showed that PT NPs-Gel reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (NO, iNOS, TNF-α, and IL-1β), increased the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD and CAT) with effect. In the DSS-induced UC mouse model, PT NPs-Gel significantly alleviated UC symptoms, improved the length of colon, and lowered the disease activity index (DAI) score. Histological analysis indicated that PT NPs-Gel protected the colonic epithelial barrier and reduced inflammation. The PT NPs-Gel formulation utilizes the biological properties of the hydrogel carrier to improve the bioavailability of active compounds and demonstrates effective anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a promising oral delivery system for the treatment of UC and potentially other inflammatory bowel diseases.