Enhancing Intestinal Barrier Function via Local Magnetic Hyperthermia Using Zn-Ferrite@Silica Nanoparticles

Abstract

The integrity of the intestinal barrier is essential for maintaining body homeostasis. Thermal adaptation is known to prevent and mitigate intestinal mucosal damage caused by heat stress and surgical trauma. While the optimal temperature for such adaptation remains unclear, systemic temperature increase may risk the body with multiple organ damages. This study investigates the effects of local thermal adaptation strategies on the intestine, particularly changes in the intestinal barrier function. A mouse model of colon magnetic hyperthermia was established by injecting Zn_0.3Fe_2.7O₄@SiO₂ (ZFO@SiO₂) magnetic nanoparticles into the colon lumen and inducing localized heating (ΔT of 9–11 °C) using an alternating magnetic field. From 6 to 48 h after mild and safe magnetic hyperthermia (ΔT of 0.5–1 °C from baseline temperature and maintained for 30 min) based on ZFO@SiO₂ nanoparticles in the colon lumen, the intestinal tight junction proteins (Claudin-1, Occludin, and ZO-1) of the mouse model were significantly upregulated, indicating an enhanced intestinal barrier function. Our approach offers a promising strategy for local thermal adaptation in colon and provides an approach for intestinal barrier regulation.