ROS-triggered transformation of microgels to bioadhesive patch for orally administrated treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are driven by excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and progressive disruption of the intestinal mucus barrier, yet sustained mucosal protection remains insufficiently addressed by current therapies. Here, we develop an orally administered, inflammation-activated microgel system (iPatch) that undergoes a ROS-triggered microgel-to-patch transformation specifically at inflamed intestinal sites. Unlike pre-formed hydrogels or enema-based formulations, this in situ transformation enables prolonged mucosal retention, adaptive barrier reconstruction, and sequential dual-drug release after oral dosing. In colitis mouse models, iPatch restores epithelial integrity, suppresses inflammation, and significantly improves clinical outcomes. This self-transforming oral patch system offers a patient-friendly and mechanistically distinct strategy for IBD treatment.