Redox nanoparticles as a novel treatment approach for inflammation and fibrosis associated with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis

Aim: Oxidative stress (OS) is largely thought to be a central mechanism responsible for liver damage, inflammation and fibrosis in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Our aim was to investigate whether suppression of OS in the liver via redox nanoparticles (RNP) reduces liver damage in a mouse model of NASH. Materials & methods: RNPs were prepared by self-assembly of redox polymers possessing antioxidant nitroxide radicals and were orally administered by daily gavage for 4 weeks. Results: The redox polymer was delivered to the liver after disintegration of nanoparticle in the stomach. RNP treatment in NASH mice via gavage led to a reduction of liver OS, improvement of fibrosis, and significant reduction of inflammation. Conclusion: These findings uncover RNP as a novel potential NASH therapy.