Targeting ZBP1-mediated PANoptosis: inflammation responsive selenized chitosan nanoparticles loaded with Moringa A for anti-viral pneumonia therapy

Viral pneumonia poses a major global public health challenge, where excessive inflammatory responses contribute to tissue damage and respiratory failure. Inflammation-responsive nanoparticles can target inflamed areas, improving drug delivery while minimizing side effects. Chitosan, a biocompatible polysaccharide with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, gains enhanced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities when combined with selenium. This study developed selenium-chitosan nanoparticles loaded with MoringaA (MA), a natural antiviral compound from Moringa oleifera seeds. These nanoparticles target lung inflammation, releasing MA to suppress viral replication and infection while reducing inflammatory responses. Additionally, selenium-chitosan nanoparticles mitigate oxidative stress, regulate immunity, and inhibit PANoptosis—a cell death pathway that exacerbates inflammation. By blocking core proteins in this pathway, they further curb inflammatory factor release. This approach offers a promising therapeutic strategy for viral pneumonia, combining targeted drug delivery, antiviral action, and inflammation control with reduced side effects.