Folic acid-modified lysozyme protected gold nanoclusters as an effective anti-inflammatory drug for rapid relief of gout flares in hyperuricemic rats

Abstract

BackgroundGout normally occurs when excess urate crystals accumulate in the joints that induce inflammation. The inflammations further result in gout flares, causing serious pain. Some anti-inflammatory drugs can relieve pain, but they have various side effects. Nanomedicines can reduce side effects but are mostly based on the delivery of additional organic drugs, which adds complexity and may cause other health problems. We developed folic acid (FA)-modified lysozyme (Lys)-protected gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) (i.e., FLA) by a one-pot method, and successfully used FLA as an effective anti-inflammatory drug for relief of gout flares in hyperuricemic rats. MethodsThe morphological changes of the cells were studied by Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and fluorescence microscopy. Western blot was conducted to understand the inflammation factors. AutoDock Vina was used for molecular docking of FLA. ResultsFLA reduced the inflammation, oxidative stress level in vitro. By injecting FLA into gout rat models, inflammations, cartilage destructions and pain during gout flares were also significantly relieved. ConclusionCompared with complicated nano-delivery systems, FLA directly exhibits exciting therapeutic efficiency against gout flares, which will have considerable prospects in the clinic.