Promising therapeutic effect of gold nanoparticles against dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid-induced colitis in rats

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the therapeutic effect of two different doses of naked gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in the experimental colitis in rats. Materials & methods: Colitis was induced in rats by single intracolonic instillation of dinitro-benzene sulfonic acid (250 μl DNBS-25 mg/rat). 4 days later the rats were intravenously injected with a single dose of AuNPs 40 and 400 μg/kg of size 16–25 nm. Results: In comparison with dinitro-benzene sulfonic acid-colitis group, the exposure to AuNPs for 72 h ameliorated the liver and kidney functions, increased the regenerative capacity of damaged colon tissues, suppressed the inflammatory cytokine response and diminished the colonic malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase activities. In addition, there was a remarkable improvement in the antioxidant defense system. Conclusion: Our study suggested a new therapy for experimental colitis without noticeable drawbacks.