Magnetically attracting hydrogel reshapes iron metabolism for tissue repair

Sci Adv. 2024 Aug 16;10(33):eado7249. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.ado7249. Epub 2024 Aug 16.

Abstract

Ferroptosis, caused by disorders of iron metabolism, plays a critical role in various diseases, making the regulation of iron metabolism essential for tissue repair. In our analysis of degenerated intervertebral disc tissue, we observe a positive correlation between the concentration of extracellular iron ions (ex-iron) and the severity of ferroptosis in intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). Hence, inspired by magnets attracting metals, we combine polyether F127 diacrylate (FDA) with tannin (TA) to construct a magnetically attracting hydrogel (FDA-TA). This hydrogel demonstrates the capability to adsorb ex-iron and remodel the iron metabolism of cells. Furthermore, it exhibits good toughness and self-healing properties. Notably, it can activate the PI3K-AKT pathway to inhibit nuclear receptor coactivator 4-mediated ferritinophagy under ex-iron enrichment conditions. The curative effect and related mechanism are further confirmed in vivo. Consequently, on the basis of the pathological mechanism, a targeted hydrogel is designed to reshape iron metabolism, offering insights for tissue repair.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Ferroptosis* / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Hydrogels* / chemistry
  • Intervertebral Disc Degeneration / metabolism
  • Iron* / metabolism
  • Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases / metabolism
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction
  • Tannins / chemistry
  • Tannins / pharmacology
  • Wound Healing / drug effects

Substances

  • Iron
  • Hydrogels
  • Tannins
  • Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt