Microfluidic-based magnetic microspheres for targeted delivery of curcumin nanoparticles in gastroesophageal reflux disease therapy
Background
Reflux-related mucosal inflammation involves chemokine-driven inflammation and oxidative stress. Mitochondrial damage and ROS elevation create a vicious cycle, while NF-κB activation amplifies injury. Acid suppression has limited coverage in non-acid reflux, and long-term use raises concerns. Curcumin shows antioxidant and inflammation-modulating effects, but poor solubility, instability, and low penetration limit its use. Esophageal peristalsis and the acidic environment further shorten local retention. The key targeting aim is to keep curcumin at the esophageal mucosa via magnetic guidance and mucosal adhesion.
Innovation
A coaxial microfluidic chip generates GelMA microspheres co-loaded with curcumin nanoparticles and Fe3O4@SiO2 magnetic nanoparticles. An external magnetic field guides the microspheres to the esophageal region, while mucosal adhesion extends local residence. The size is kept below 100 μm for oral gavage. Curcumin release is sustained for 12 h in simulated gastric fluid, covering the high-reflux window. In vitro, the system lowers inflammatory cytokines and ROS, restores mitochondrial function, and suppresses NF-κB signaling. The targeting core is magnetic guidance plus local retention.
Materials
GelMA offers biocompatibility and biodegradability after UV crosslinking. MNPs use a Fe3O4 core and SiO2 shell for strong magnetic response. Curcumin nanoparticles formed by antisolvent precipitation show improved dispersion. The microfluidic device produces monodisperse droplets that are UV-cured into microspheres. Curcumin encapsulation efficiency is about 88.5%, and payload loading rises to 0.893% with higher initial concentration. SEM/TEM show uniform spheres, and EDS confirms Fe and Si. A magnet enriches the microspheres, and esophageal mucosal signal retention is stronger. Targeting relies on magnetic response and mucosal adhesion.
#Microfluidics #MagneticMicrospheres #Curcumin #TargetedDelivery #EsophagealMucosa #Nanoencapsulation #SustainedRelease #FrontierResearch
DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2026.177281