IL6 and inflammatory response: In vitro release studies showed sustained release of 6 from Se@6-PTs both in acidic (HCl pH 1.2) and neutral (PBS pH 6.8) media compared with 6-PTs.Phytosomes were shown to promote the transepithelial transport of 6 by the paracellular route in Caco-2 cells.Se@6-PTs and 6-PTs were able to ameliorate joint inflammation, reduce joint swelling, decrease serum levels of NO, TNF-α and IL-6, and improve arthritic scores in AA rats. The in vivo anti-arthritic effect of Se@6-PTs was superior to 6-PTs presumably due to Se enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of 6 synergistically.