Preparation, characterization, and preventive effects of ginseng polysaccharide-stabilized selenium nanoparticles against DSS-induced colitis

Aim To overcome the poor colloidal stability of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) and combine ginseng polysaccharide bioactivity with nano selenium advantages for ulcerative colitis prevention.Materials and methods Ginseng polysaccharide functionalized SeNPs (GP-SeNPs) were prepared. Particle size, in vitro antioxidant activity, cellular uptake, and protection against H2O2‑induced oxidative stress were assessed. A DSS‑induced colitis mouse model was used to assess preventive effects.Results GP-SeNPs showed smaller particle size (101.00 ± 1.22 nm), strong antioxidant activity, enhanced cellular uptake, and protection against oxidative stress in vitro. In DSS mice, GP-SeNPs alleviated colon shortening, weight loss, disease activity index, pro‑inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression, oxidative stress, and colonic histopathological damage.Conclusion Ginseng polysaccharide functionalization improved the stability and biological performance of SeNPs, supporting their development as functional ingredients for intestinal health protection.