pH and redox dual response nano-suppository for the treatment of ulcerative colitis

To improve treatment compliance and reach sustained and controlled drug release in the colon, we developed a hollow mesoporous silica nano-suppository that responded to both pH and redox stimuli. Firstly, we prepared hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles containing disulfide bonds (HMSN-SS) and loaded them with 5-ASA. Secondly, we modified the surface of HMSN-SS with polydopamine (PDA) and chitosan (CS) and molded the suppository, which we named 5-ASA@HMSN-SS-PDA-CS (5-ASA@HSPC). By administering 5-ASA@HSPC rectally, it acted directly on the affected area. CS helped the nanoparticles adhere to the colon’s surface, while PDA dissociates from HMSN-SS due to protonation in the acidic environment of the ulcerative colon. The disulfide bonds were destroyed by the reducing environment of the colon, leading to a stable and slow release of encapsulated 5-ASA from the pores of HMSN. Finally, in vitro release experiments and in vivo pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic experiments had demonstrated that 5-ASA@HSPC exhibited a slow and steady action at the colonic site, with an excellent safety profile. This novel approach showed great potential in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Graphical Abstract