Microalgae-based oral microcarriers for gut microbiota homeostasis and intestinal protection in cancer radiotherapy

Dongxiao Zhang, Danni Zhong, Jiang Ouyang, Jian He, Yuchen Qi, Wei Chen, Xingcai Zhang (), Wei Tao () and Min Zhou ()
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Dongxiao Zhang: Zhejiang University School of Medicine
Danni Zhong: Zhejiang University School of Medicine
Jiang Ouyang: Harvard Medical School
Jian He: Zhejiang University
Yuchen Qi: Zhejiang University
Wei Chen: Harvard Medical School
Xingcai Zhang: Harvard University
Wei Tao: Harvard Medical School
Min Zhou: Zhejiang University School of Medicine

Nature Communications, 2022, vol. 13, issue 1, 1-18

Abstract: Abstract Protecting the whole small intestine from radiation-induced intestinal injury during the radiotherapy of abdominal or pelvic solid tumors remains an unmet clinical need. Amifostine is a promising selective radioprotector for normal tissues. However, its oral application in intestinal radioprotection remains challenging. Herein, we use microalga Spirulina platensis as a microcarrier of Amifostine to construct an oral delivery system. The system shows comprehensive drug accumulation and effective radioprotection in the whole small intestine that is significantly superior to free drug and its enteric capsule, preventing the radiation-induced intestine injury and prolonging the survival without influencing the tumor regression. It also shows benefits on the gut microbiota homeostasis and long-term safety. Based on a readily available natural microcarrier, this work presents a convenient oral delivery system to achieve effective radioprotection for the whole small intestine, providing a competitive strategy with great clinical translation potential.

Date: 2022
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28744-4

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