Levodopa-loaded nanoparticles for the treatment of Parkinson's disease

JWH133 attenuates behavior deficits and iron accumulation in 6-OHDA-induced Parkinson's disease model rats

Growing evidence indicates that activation of cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptors protects dopamine neurons in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the mechanisms underlying neuroprotection mediated by CB2 receptors are still elusive. In this study, we investigated the effects of CB2 receptor activation on 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced dopamine neuron degeneration and iron accumulation in the substantia nigra (SN) of rats. We found that treatment with JWH133, a selective CB2 receptor agonist, significantly improved the apomorphine (APO)-induced rotational behavior in 6-OHDA-treated rats. The decreased numbers of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive neurons and reduced TH protein expression in the lesioned SN of rats were effectively restored by JWH133. Moreover, we found that JWH133 inhibited the increase of iron-staining cells in the lesioned SN of rats. To explore the protective mechanisms of activation of CB2 receptors on dopamine neurons, we further observed the effect of JWH133 on 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+)-treated primary cultured ventral mesencephalon (VM) neurons from rats. We found that JWH133 significantly inhibited the increase of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), the activation of Caspase-3, the decrease of mitochondrial transmembrane potential (ΔΨm), and the decrease of Bcl-2/Bax protein expression caused by MPP+ treatment. JWH133 also inhibited the MPP+-induced upregulation of divalent metal transporter-1 (DMT1) and downregulation of ferroportin 1 (FPN1). Furthermore, JWH133 also suppressed the MPP+-accelerated iron influx in the VM neurons. These results suggest that activation of CB2 receptor suppresses MPP+-induced cellular iron accumulation and prevents neurodegeneration.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Expression of cannabinoid type 2 receptors (CB2Rs) was discovered on dopamine neurons in recent years. The role of CB2R expressed on dopamine neurons in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD) has not been fully elucidated. The content of iron accumulation in the brain is closely related to the progress of PD. We verified the inhibitory effect of CB2R on iron deposition in dopamine neurons through experiments, which provided a new idea for the treatment of PD.

Tailoring adsorbents for levodopa detection: a DFT study on Pt-encapsulated fullerene systems

Despite its effectiveness in managing the motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease, levodopa therapy is often accompanied by adverse effects that can significantly reduce patients' quality of life. Hence, the need to detect levodopa has escalated among researchers and health experts. Herein, the intricacies of levodopa adsorption were studied using newly tailored fullerene-based adsorbents. All theoretical calculations were performed using the DFT/PBE1PBE/GENECP level of theory. Having modified the surface by Pt-encapsulation followed by functionalization with a functional group (COOH, HCO, NH2, NO2, and OH), new materials were engineered towards levodopa adsorption. Various theoretical and computational analyses were thoroughly explored to gain insight into the electronic properties, nature of inter- and intra-molecular interactions, strength and phenomenal of adsorption, and the mechanisms of sensing. Adsorption was found to have taken place from the region of the functional groups, where adsorption strength is influenced by the varying electron-withdrawing abilities of the groups. In all cases, the adsorption phenomenon is best described as physisorption. Changes in the dimensions are attributed to the stretching vibration of the bonds on the surface. Also, the small energy gaps within a close range of 0.295 to 0.675 eV exhibited by the materials upon adsorption are an indication of semiconductors. Hence, the functionalized systems hold promise as adsorbents for levodopa molecules, offering valuable insights for future research endeavors.

Sika Deer Velvet Antler Peptide Exerts Neuroprotective Effect in a Parkinson's Disease Model via Regulating Oxidative Damage and Gut Microbiota

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder globally. Recognizing the potential of velvet antler in the nervous system, as shown in numerous studies, this research was aimed at evaluating the neuroprotective effects of Sika Deer velvet antler peptide (VAP), along with the underlying mechanisms in neurotoxin-induced PD models. Initially, a peptidomic analysis of the VAP, which comprised 189 varieties of peptides, was conducted using LC-MS. Nine sequences were identified as significant using Proteome Discoverer 2.5 software. In a cellular model of PD, where PC12 cells are treated with the neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+), the administration of the VAP reduced the cell damage and apoptosis induced by MPP+. This protective effect was associated with a decrease in oxidative stress. This protective mechanism was found to be mediated through the activation of the SIRT1-dependent Akt/Nrf2/HO-1-signaling pathway. In animal models, specifically in mice with 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced PD, the administration of the VAP effectively reduced the dopaminergic neuron damage and reversed the neurobehavioral deficits. They also diminished microglia activation and apoptosis, all without any noticeable adverse effects. Additionally, the VAP was observed to beneficially alter the gut microbiota, as marked by an increase in the abundances of Prevotellaceae, Helicobacteraceae, and Prevotella. These findings suggest that VAP exerts its neuroprotective effect against neurodegeneration by inhibiting oxidative stress and modulating gut microbiota.

Application of parallel artificial membrane permeability assay technique and chemometric modeling for blood-brain barrier permeability prediction of protein kinase inhibitors

Aim: This study aims to investigate the passive diffusion of protein kinase inhibitors through the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and to develop a model for their permeability prediction. Materials & methods: We used the parallel artificial membrane permeability assay to obtain logPe values of each of 34 compounds and calculated descriptors for these structures to perform quantitative structure-property relationship modeling, creating different regression models. Results: The logPe values have been calculated for all 34 compounds. Support vector machine regression was considered the most reliable, and CATS2D_09_DA, CATS2D_04_AA, B04[N-S] and F07[C-N] descriptors were identified as the most influential to passive BBB permeability. Conclusion: The quantitative structure-property relationship-support vector machine regression model that has been generated can serve as an efficient method for preliminary screening of BBB permeability of new analogs.

Biologics, theranostics, and personalized medicine in drug delivery systems

The progress in human disease treatment can be greatly advanced through the implementation of nanomedicine. This approach involves targeted and cell-specific therapy, controlled drug release, personalized dosage forms, wearable drug delivery, and companion diagnostics. By integrating cutting-edge technologies with drug delivery systems, greater precision can be achieved at the tissue and cellular levels through the use of stimuli-responsive nanoparticles, and the development of electrochemical sensor systems. This precision targeting - by virtue of nanotechnology - allows for therapy to be directed specifically to affected tissues while greatly reducing side effects on healthy tissues. As such, nanomedicine has the potential to transform the treatment of conditions such as cancer, genetic diseases, and chronic illnesses by facilitating precise and cell-specific drug delivery. Additionally, personalized dosage forms and wearable devices offer the ability to tailor treatment to the unique needs of each patient, thereby increasing therapeutic effectiveness and compliance. Companion diagnostics further enable efficient monitoring of treatment response, enabling customized adjustments to the treatment plan. The question of whether all the potential therapeutic approaches outlined here are viable alternatives to current treatments is also discussed. In general, the application of nanotechnology in the field of biomedicine may provide a strong alternative to existing treatments for several reasons. In this review, we aim to present evidence that, although in early stages, fully merging advanced technology with innovative drug delivery shows promise for successful implementation across various disease areas, including cancer and genetic or chronic diseases.

Gold Nanoparticles in Parkinson's Disease Therapy: A Focus on Plant-Based Green Synthesis

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects approximately 1% of people over the age of 60 and 5% of those over the age of 85. Current drugs for Parkinson's disease mainly affect the symptoms and cannot stop its progression. Nanotechnology provides a solution to address some challenges in therapy, such as overcoming the blood-brain barrier (BBB), adverse pharmacokinetics, and the limited bioavailability of therapeutics. The reformulation of drugs into nanoparticles (NPs) can improve their biodistribution, protect them from degradation, reduce the required dose, and ensure target accumulation. Furthermore, appropriately designed nanoparticles enable the combination of diagnosis and therapy with a single nanoagent. In recent years, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been studied with increasing interest due to their intrinsic nanozyme activity. They can mimic the action of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase. The use of 13-nm gold nanoparticles (CNM-Au8®) in bicarbonate solution is being studied as a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease and other neurological illnesses. CNM-Au8® improves remyelination and motor functions in experimental animals. Among the many techniques for nanoparticle synthesis, green synthesis is increasingly used due to its simplicity and therapeutic potential. Green synthesis relies on natural and environmentally friendly materials, such as plant extracts, to reduce metal ions and form nanoparticles. Moreover, the presence of bioactive plant compounds on their surface increases the therapeutic potential of these nanoparticles. The present article reviews the possibilities of nanoparticles obtained by green synthesis to combine the therapeutic effects of plant components with gold.

Nanoparticle-based Gene Therapy for Neurodegenerative Disorders

Neurological disorders present a formidable challenge in modern medicine due to the intricate obstacles set for the brain and the multipart nature of genetic interventions. This review article delves into the promising realm of nanoparticle-based gene therapy as an innovative approach to addressing the intricacies of neurological disorders. Nanoparticles (NPs) provide a multipurpose podium for the conveyance of therapeutic genes, offering unique properties such as precise targeting, enhanced stability, and the potential to bypass blood-brain barrier (BBB) restrictions. This comprehensive exploration reviews the current state of nanoparticle-mediated gene therapy in neurological disorders, highlighting recent advancements and breakthroughs. The discussion encompasses the synthesis of nanoparticles from various materials and their conjugation to therapeutic genes, emphasizing the flexibility in design that contributes to specific tissue targeting. The abstract also addresses the low immunogenicity of these nanoparticles and their stability in circulation, critical factors for successful gene delivery. While the potential of NP-based gene therapy for neurological disorders is vast, challenges and gaps in knowledge persist. The lack of extensive clinical trials leaves questions about safety and potential side effects unanswered. Therefore, this abstract emphasizes the need for further research to validate the therapeutic applications of NP-mediated gene therapy and to address nanosafety concerns. In conclusion, nanoparticle-based gene therapy emerges as a promising avenue in the pursuit of effective treatments for neurological disorders. This abstract advocates for continued research efforts to bridge existing knowledge gaps, unlocking the full potential of this innovative approach and paving the way for transformative solutions in the realm of neurological health.

Electroacupuncture Alleviates Parkinson's Disease by Promoting METTL9-Catalyzed Histidine Methylation of Nuclear Factor-κВ

This study aimed to investigate the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) treatment on Parkinson's disease (PD). 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) administration was used establish PD mice model. The number of neurons is determined by TH staining. mRNA expression is detected by RT-qPCR. Protein expression was detected by Western blot. Gene expression is determined by immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. The functions of neurons are determined by TUNEL and flow cytometry assay. The binding sites of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) RELA on the promoter of NLRP3 are predicted by JASPAR and verified by luciferase and ChIP assays. The results showed that EA treatment improves motor dysfunction in patients with PD. In vivo assays show that MPTP administration induces the loss of neurons in mice, which is restored by EA treatment. Moreover, EA treatment alleviates motor deficits in MPTP-induced PD mice. EA treatment also inhibits the enrichment of pro-inflammatory cytokines and lactodehydrogenase and suppresses neuronal pyroptosis. EA treatment increases the expression of METTL9. However, METTL9 deficiency dampens the effects of EA treatment and induces neuronal pyroptosis. Additionally, METTL9 promotes histidine methylation of NF-κB RELA, resulting the inhibition of epigenetic transcription of NLRP3. EA treatment restores neuronal function and improves motor dysfunction via promoting METTL9 histidine methylation of NF-κB/ NLRP3 signaling.

Designing and Formulation of Nanocarriers for "Alzheimer's and Parkinson's" Early Detection and Therapy

The potential of nanotechnology in advancing the diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases is explored in this comprehensive literature review. The findings of these studies suggest that nanotechnology has the capacity to improve existing therapeutic approaches, create novel and safe compounds, and develop more precise imaging techniques and diagnostic methods for neurodegenerative diseases. With the emergence of the nanomedicine era, a new and innovative approach of diagnosing and treating these conditions has been introduced. Notably, the researchers' development of a nanocarrier drug delivery tool demonstrates immense potential compared to conventional therapy, as it maximizes therapeutic efficacy and minimizes undesirable as side effects.

The Role of Immune Dysfunction in Parkinson's Disease Development

Recent research has unveiled intriguing insights suggesting that the body's immune system may be implicated in Parkinson's disease (PD) development. Studies have observed disparities in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers between PD patients and healthy individuals. This finding underscores the potential influence of immune system dysfunction in the genesis of this condition. A dysfunctional immune system can serve as a primary catalyst for systemic inflammation in the body, which may contribute to the emergence of various brain disorders. The identification of several genes associated with PD, as well as their connection to neuroinflammation, raises the likelihood of disease susceptibility. Moreover, advancing age and mitochondrial dysfunction can weaken the immune system, potentially implicating them in the onset of the disease, particularly among older individuals. Compromised integrity of the blood-brain barrier could facilitate the immune system's access to brain tissue. This exposure may lead to encounters with native antigens or infections, potentially triggering an autoimmune response. Furthermore, there is mounting evidence supporting the notion that gut dysbiosis might represent an initial trigger for brain inflammation, ultimately promoting neurodegeneration. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the numerous hypotheses surrounding the role of both innate and adaptive immunity in PD.