Natural molecule-based nanoparticles: A minimalist approach to treating acute lung injury

Abstract

To address the severe inflammatory lung disease, Acute Lung Injury (ALI), we have developed an innovative anti-inflammatory nanoparticle drug delivery system based on natural molecules. By loading the anti-inflammatory agent curcumin into chitosan-heparin polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) nanoparticles, we aimed to achieve precise targeted therapy for lung inflammation. These nanoparticles specifically target lung inflammation by binding to L-selectin receptors that are overexpressed on the surface of inflammatory neutrophils. Furthermore, they inhibit the progression of ALI through a dual mechanism: curcumin blocks the NF-κB signaling pathway, while heparin suppresses neutrophil infiltration. Both in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated the strong anti-inflammatory efficacy of this system. This study highlights the concept of “dual function”, where heparin not only serves as a carrier but also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, underscoring the potential of natural molecules in drug delivery systems.