Self-assembled nanoaggregates in Wuzhuyu decoction: formation, absorption, transport, and alleviation of chronic migraine

Self-assembled nanoaggregates (SANs) derived from herbal decoctions have emerged as promising natural nanomedicines. However, their formation patterns in multi-herb formulations and therapeutic roles in central nervous system disorders remain unclear. Wuzhuyu decoction (WZYD) is a classical formula for migraine treatment. Here, we reveal that SANs in WZYD (N-WZYDs) are formed through synergistic interactions among multiple herbal ingredients with Euodiae Fructus as the focus. N-WZYDs consisted mainly of proteoglycan scaffolds and small-molecule active components. In chronic migraine (CM) rat models, N-WZYDs significantly alleviated symptoms with efficacy comparable to that of WZYD, potentially via inhibition of the IL-33/ST2/TRPA1 signaling pathway. In Caco-2 cells, transport studies indicated that ginsenoside Rg₁, dehydroevodiamine, and rutaevin were poorly absorbed, whereas evodiamine and 6-gingerol were moderately absorbed but significantly active in efflux, indicating the intestine as a key site of action. As an oral medication, intact N-WZYDs accumulated primarily in the intestines and could be internalized by Caco-2 and enterochromaffin cells. Crucially, N-WZYDs promoted serotonin release from enterochromaffin cells more effectively than free active molecules alone and increased peripheral serotonin levels, thereby alleviating CM. By investigating the formation patterns, anti-CM mechanisms, and absorption behaviors of N-WZYDs, this study elucidated their material basis and brain−intestine interactions in treating CM, supporting their further development as therapeutic agents or drug delivery systems.