Curcumin-Loaded Lactoferrin/Pectin Core-Shell Structured Microgel Nanoparticles: Dual Regulatory Effects in Alleviating Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Curcumin (Cur) has therapeutic potential for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) but is limited by its poor bioavailability. METHODS: This study demonstrated that Cur-loaded core-shell structured microgel nanoparticles (LF/CP-Cur MN), fabricated through electrostatic complexation between lactoferrin and citrus pectin, followed by Caconsolidation, overcome this limitation. RESULTS: These nanoparticles effectively reduced the bitterness and astringency of curcumin while prolonging its release time. In an IBD mouse model, LF/CP-Cur MN treatment mitigated symptoms and inflammation of IBD, and restored intestinal barrier integrity. Crucially, compared with free Cur, the LF/CP-Cur MN enhanced colon-targeted accumulation of Cur and favorably modulated the gut microbiota by increasing beneficial genera likeand, while suppressing harmful genera like, thereby promoting levels of acetate, propionate, and butyrate. CONCLUSIONS: These findings highlight the potential of the LF/CP-Cur MN to improve Cur bioaccessibility and exert dual functional roles in modulating gut microbiota and alleviating inflammation, thus offering a promising dietary strategy for the management of IBD.