A novel zinc ferrite nanoparticle protects against MSU-induced gout arthritis via Nrf2/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway

Aims: Gouty arthritis (GA), a prevalent and intricate form of inflammatory arthritis, affects individuals across all age groups. Existing therapeutic agents for GA are associated with substantial adverse effects. The overarching objective of this study is to identify an efficacious and biocompatible intervention strategy for GA.

Materials and methods: In this investigation, we developed a zinc ferrite nanoparticle (ZFN) characterized by outstanding catalytic activities in anti-inflammatory and antioxidative processes, along with negligible biotoxicity. ZFN features low-content Zn²⁺ doping, which effectively overcomes the issue of low biocompatibility commonly encountered in Zn-based nanoparticles. Both in vitro and in vivo experimental models were utilized to comprehensively evaluate the effects of ZFN.

Key findings: The experimental results demonstrate that ZFN exhibits remarkable efficacy in alleviating inflammation and oxidative stress both in vitro and in vivo. It exerts its therapeutic effect on GA by modulating the NF-κB signaling pathway, suppressing the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, and activating the Nrf2 pathway.

Significance: The protective effect of ZFN against GA holds great promise for the clinical translation of biocompatible inorganic nanoplatforms in the treatment of GA. This finding offers a potential alternative to the currently available medications, thereby providing new insights and possibilities for the management of GA.

Gouty arthritis; Inflammasome; Inflammation; Oxidative stress; Zinc ferrite nanoparticle.