Nanoparticle-mediated metabolic reprogramming for immune modulation in inflammatory diseases

Abstract

Dysregulated immune cell metabolism including abnormal glycolysis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation contributes to the pathogenesis of various inflammatory diseases. Recent advances in immunometabolism have highlighted the critical role of metabolic reprogramming in shaping immune responses during chronic inflammation. However, a lack of selectivity for specific immune cells or tissues often leads to off-target effects. Nanoparticle-based therapeutic strategies have emerged as a promising platform for modulating immune cell metabolism with improved precision, enhanced bioavailability, and reduced systemic toxicity. Despite progress in this field, there has been no comprehensive review in recent years that systematically summarizes the use of engineered nanocarriers for immunometabolic regulation in inflammatory diseases. This review provides a systematic overview of nanoparticle-mediated metabolic reprogramming for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. These nanoparticles not only serve as delivery vehicles for metabolic modulators but also actively participate in immune regulation through their physicochemical properties and surface functionalities. Furthermore, this review analyzes early-stage clinical studies and the patent landscape, indicating encouraging efficacy and safety profiles for nanoparticle-based metabolic therapies. Collectively, nanoparticle-mediated immunometabolic reprogramming offers a transformative approach for precision intervention in inflammatory diseases.