Silver nanoparticles combined with chitosan demonstrate strong and targeted efficacy against pancreatitis

Abstract

Background: Pancreatitis, a prevalent inflammatory condition affecting the pancreas, presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The quest for innovative therapeutic strategies to address this condition has led to growing interest in silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) doped with chitosan due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Chitosan, a natural polysaccharide derived from crustacean exoskeletons, exhibits biocompatibility and various biological activities, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. This study investigates the efficacy of AgNPs-Chito in alleviating pancreatitis in an animal model induced by oral administration of ethyl alcohol. Methods: Adult male Swiss albino rats were divided into control, induced (pancreatitis induced but not treated), and treated with AgNPs-Chito groups. Parameters including liver function markers, blood glucose levels, pancreatic enzymes, and oxidative markers were evaluated. Results indicate that AgNPs-Chito treatment significantly improved liver function markers, reduced blood glucose levels, and decreased levels of pancreatic enzymes compared to the induced group. Furthermore, AgNPs-Chito exhibited antioxidant properties by reducing reactive oxygen species levels and enhancing glutathione S-transferase activity. Histopathological examination revealed protective effects on pancreatic tissue integrity. Conclusion: These findings suggest the potential therapeutic benefits of AgNPs-Chito in mitigating alcohol-induced pancreatitis through its multifaceted antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant actions. Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects and to explore the translational potential of AgNPs-Chito as a novel therapy for pancreatitis.