Scientists have investigated the impact of short-term oral administration of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) on the gut microbiota of rats and assessed its associated toxicity. The MSNs were administered orally into rats in three forms—MCM-41, SBA-15, and DMSN.
Upon examining the fecal samples from the rat groups, the scientists reported significant changes in the MCM-41-treated group. There was no diversity alteration between the rat groups, but the MCM-41-treated rats showed a decrease in Verrucomicrobia and an increase in Candidatus Saccharibacteria. This observation indicates potential disruptions in gut microbial balance.
Furthermore, while morphological analysis of colons did not show inflammatory symptoms in most groups, the MCM-41-treated rats exhibited signs of inflammation. These findings suggest a correlation between MSN administration, gut microbiota changes, and pro-inflammatory effects.
This study underscores the necessity of considering gut microbiota in assessing MSN toxicity, particularly in oral drug delivery. By shedding light on the interactions between MSNs and gut microbiota, the research emphasizes the need for further exploration to ensure the safe and effective utilization of MSNs in biomedical applications.
Yu, Z. Wang, R. Wang, J. Jin, and Y. Z. Zhu, “Short-Term Oral Administration of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Potentially Induced Colon Inflammation in Rats Through Alteration of Gut Microbiota,” IJN, vol. Volume 16, pp. 881–893, Feb. 2021, doi: .
