Co(II)-MOF for the chemical conversion of CO₂ and treatment effect on chronic enteritis by reducing the inflammatory response in HIEC

This study presents a 3D metal–organic framework (MOF) material [Co₂(atrz)₂(bdc)]·(DMF)(H₂O)₂ based on Co(II) ions as the metal nodes. A three-substituted 1,2,4-triazole (Hatrz) was utilized as the functional unit in the reaction of 1,4-benzenedicarboxylate (H₂bdc), Hatrz, and Co(NO₃)₂·6H₂O in a mixed solvent of DMF and water. The high density of amino groups and abundant micropores (pore volume of 0.32 cm³/g and BET surface area of 764.5 m²/g) in solvent-free complex displayed good catalytic performance and substrate selectivity towards CO₂ conversion under mild conditions due to the synergistic effects of the coordinatively unsaturated Co(II) sites. Furthermore, the protective function of the complex on chronic enteritis was assessed. ELISA assay was performed to detect the IL-18 and IL-1β released from human intestinal epithelial cells (HIEC) after compound treatment. Western blot was conducted to evaluate the activation of NLPR3–caspase-1 pathway in HIEC. Graphic abstract: