Multifunctional Fucose‐Anthocyanin Conjugate Hydrogel for Synergistic Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease by Scavenging Oxidative Stress, Modulating Gut Microbiota, and Enhancing Intestinal Barrier

Abstract Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of unknown origin that causes significant health problems worldwide. In this study, a fucose‐anthocyanin conjugate is synthesized, and a colon‐targeted drug delivery hydrogel is prepared. The components and structure of the hydrogel are characterized and identified. The findings reveal that the hydrogel containing the fucose‐anthocyanin conjugate significantly reduced symptoms associated with dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis. Specifically, administration of the conjugate leads to reduced levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, including IL‐6, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β, thereby reducing the inflammatory response. Furthermore, administration of the conjugate restores intestinal barrier permeability by increasing mucin and tight junction protein levels. Additionally, the conjugate aided in rebalancing the intestinal microbiota in DSS‐treated mice. This study sheds light on the therapeutic potential of the synthesized fucose‐anthocyanin conjugate and its colon‐targeted drug delivery hydrogel against colitis.