Nanoplatforms in Gastric Ulcer Therapy: A Narrative Review

Introduction : Gastric ulcer is a common gastrointestinal disorder resulting from an imbalance between aggressive factors such as gastric acid, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation and protective mucosal mechanisms. Limitations of conventional therapies, including drug resistance, systemic side effects, and suboptimal efficacy in certain patients, underscore the need for novel therapeutic strategies. Nanoparticles, as advanced drug delivery systems, offer promising approaches for targeted gastric mucosal therapy by enhancing drug stability, enabling site-specific delivery, and minimizing adverse effects. This review aims to analyze the therapeutic applications of nanoplatforms in the management of gastric ulcers and associated infections.Methods: A narrative review was conducted by systematically searching PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from ۲۰۱۰ to ۲۰۲۵. Standardized keywords included “gastric ulcer,” “nanoparticles,” “targeted drug delivery,” “Helicobacter pylori,” and “mucosal drug delivery systems.” Eligible studies comprised preclinical investigations, animal models, and relevant review articles. Data were extracted and analyzed qualitatively and thematically.Results: The findings indicate that nanocarriers including poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), chitosan, silver, gold, selenium nanoparticles, and plant-based formulations—enhance drug bioavailability, enable controlled release, improve mucoadhesion, and achieve targeted gastric delivery. These properties collectively facilitate accelerated mucosal healing and tissue regeneration. Key mechanisms include inhibition of inflammatory pathways such as NF-κB, reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-۶), attenuation of oxidative stress, enhancement of antioxidant defenses (SOD, CAT, NRF۲), and antibacterial activity against H. pylori. Conversely, certain nanoparticles, such as titanium dioxide, may provoke local inflammation and mucosal injury, highlighting the importance of nanoparticle type and physicochemical properties.Conclusion: Targeted nanoparticles, through controlled drug release, mucoadhesion, anti-inflammatory effects, and antibacterial activity, represent a novel and effective approach for gastric ulcer therapy However, heterogeneity in biological responses and potential toxicity necessitate further extensive preclinical studies and rigorously designed clinical trials to ensure the safety and efficacy of these nanomedicine strategies.

کلیدواژه ها:

Gastric Ulcer ، Nanoparticle ، targeted drug delivery ، Nanomedicine