The University of Alabama Center for Convergent Bioscience and Medicine, led by faculty from the College of Community Health Sciences, has developed a bio-engineered molecule that uses naringenin, a natural compound found in citrus fruits, to both target and treat inflammation.
The project was led by Dr. Meenakshi Arora, associate professor of biomedical sciences at CCHS and a research scientist with the center.
“This is the first time a single engineered molecule has been designed to both guide treatment and promote healing,” Arora said. “Our dual-function nanoparticles not only deliver the drug more efficiently but also help restore immune balance and reduce tissue damage.”
Naringenin, a flavonoid known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, is poorly absorbed when consumed through food or current supplements. Normally, it begins to break down in the stomach’s acidic environment, and only a small fraction reaches the bloodstream. The CCHS team’s bioengineered molecule protects naringenin from this breakdown and enhances its absorption, unlocking its full potential to fight inflammation.