Construction of iron oxide nanoparticles modified with Angelica sinensis polysaccharide for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia

This investigation is aimed to develop a novel iron supplement, iron oxide nanoparticles modified with Angelica sinensis polysaccharide (IONPs-ASP), for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia (IDA). IONPs-ASP was synthesized using the co-precipitation method and characterized for their structural features, physicochemical properties, and biocompatibility by TEM, SEM, FTIR, etc. The therapeutic effects of IONPs-ASP were assessed in a rat IDA model. IONPs-ASP was administered intravenously, and blood parameters were monitored. In addition, the preliminary safety of IONPs-ASP was evaluated by organ coefficients and histopathological staining. IONPs-ASP was successfully constructed, with a small particle size, core–shell structure, hydrophilicity, and good biocompatibility. Compared to unmodified IONPs, IONPs-ASP showed better stability and dispersion. In the IDA rat model, IONPs-ASP exhibited superior therapeutic efficacy than that of ASP or IONPs monotherapy. Furthermore, no abnormalities were observed in the organ coefficients and tissue section. IONPs-ASP not only has a superior therapeutic effect on IDA but also has the effect of the ASP on supplementing blood. Hence, it may be used as a new iron supplementing agent with double therapeutic efficacy on blood supplementation for the treatment of IDA. Graphical Abstract In this study, we constructed Angelica sinensis polysaccharide (ASP)–modified iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) and demonstrated the therapeutic effects of IONPs-ASP on iron deficiency anemia (IDA), which was associated with IONPs supplementation and APS-stimulated hematopoietic cell generation.