Biomimetic superabsorbent hydrogel acts as a gut protective dynamic exoskeleton improving metabolic parameters and expanding A. muciniphila

The rising prevalence of obesity and metabolic disorders worldwide highlights the urgent need to find new long-term and clinically meaningful weight-loss therapies. Here, we evaluate the therapeutic potential and the mechanism of action of a biomimetic cellulose-based oral superabsorbent hydrogel (OSH). Treatment with OSH exerts effects on intestinal tissue and gut microbiota composition, functioning like a protective dynamic exoskeleton. It protects from gut barrier permeability disruption and induces rapid and consistent changes in the gut microbiota composition, specifically fostering Akkermansia muciniphila expansion. The mechanobiological, physical, and chemical structures of the gel are required for A. muciniphila growth. OSH treatment induces weight loss and reduces fat accumulation, in both preventative and therapeutic settings. OSH usage also prevents liver steatosis, immune infiltration, and fibrosis, limiting the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Our work shows the potential of using OSH as a non-systemic mechanobiological approach to treat metabolic syndrome and its comorbidities. [Display omitted] •Oral superabsorbent hydrogel (OSH) improves metabolic parameters in mice•Two mechanisms are involved: protects intestinal barriers and shapes the gut microbiota•Chemical and physical properties of OSH foster Akkermansia muciniphila growth In brief, Silvestri et al. evaluate the therapeutic effects of a superabsorbent hydrogel as a non-systemic mechanobiological approach to treat metabolic syndrome and its comorbidities. Results imply that this device improves intestinal barrier protection while inducing changes in gut microbiota composition, specifically fostering Akkermansia muciniphila expansion.