PepT1-Targeted Nanodrug Based on Co-Assembly of Anti-Inflammatory Peptide KPV and Immunosuppressant for Combined Treatment of Acute and Chronic DSS-Induced Colitis

Plain-language summary

This 2024 study developed a co-assembled nanodrug pairing the tripeptide KPV with an immunosuppressant, targeting the PepT1 transporter that is upregulated in inflamed colon tissue, to treat both acute and chronic colitis models. The formulation demonstrated restored tight junction proteins (ZO-1, Claudin-5, Occludin-1) and improved colonic mucosal integrity in DSS-induced colitis mice. Results suggest that leveraging KPV's PepT1-mediated cellular uptake in a targeted nanoparticle platform significantly enhances its anti-inflammatory efficacy.