Experimental nanoparticles temper inflammation in mouse sepsis models
Published in Immunology, Journals, Nanomedicine.
Published October 22, 2026.
A study published October 21 in Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy reports that experimental nanoparticles improved short-term outcomes in mouse models of sepsis while shifting macrophages toward less inflammatory states.
Xintong Lu and colleagues developed EONPs to combine modulation of STING immune signaling with inhibition of DHODH, an enzyme involved in nucleotide production. In mice treated immediately after sepsis-inducing surgery, the formulation improved survival over 72 hours and reduced inflammatory signals and organ injury. Survival experiments used ten animals per group.
The researchers also observed changes in gut microbes and increased levels of the metabolite 5-HIAA. Mechanistic experiments supported its contribution to the anti-inflammatory response, although the study could not establish whether microbial changes were direct effects of the nanoparticles or consequences of reduced inflammation.
Limits: These are preclinical findings, not evidence of benefit in patients. Treatment began very early, follow-up was short, and some mechanistic groups were small. Delayed treatment, use alongside antibiotics, longer-term safety and drug distribution still need evaluation. Reduced bacterial counts did not reach statistical significance.
Source: Lu et al., Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, October 21, 2026.