1
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Hou T, Yang Q, Ding M, Wang X, Mei K, Guan P, Wang C, Hu X. Blood-brain barrier permeable carbon nano-assemblies for amyloid-β clearance and neurotoxic attenuation. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2024; 244:114182. [PMID: 39216441 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2024.114182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Abnormal amyloid β-protein (Aβ42) fibrillation is a key event in Alzheimer's disease (AD), and photodynamic therapy (PDT) possesses great potential in modulating Aβ42 self-assembly. However, the poor blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration, low biocompatibility, and limited tissue penetration depth of existing photosensitizers limit the progress of photo-oxidation strategies. In this paper, novel indocyanine green-modified graphene quantum dot nano-assemblies (NBGQDs-ICGs) were synthesized based on a molecular assembly strategy of electrostatic interactions for PDT inhibition of Aβ42 self-assembly process and decomposition of preformed fibrils under near-infrared light. Combining the small-size structure of graphene quantum dots and the near-infrared light-responsive properties of ICGs, the NBGQDs-ICGs could achieve BBB penetration under 808 nm irradiation. More importantly, the neuroprotective mechanism of NBGQDs-ICG was studied for the first time by AFM, which effectively weakened the adhesion of Aβ42 aggregates to the cell surface by blocking the interaction between Aβ42 and the cell membrane, and restored the mechanical stability and adhesion of the neuron membrane. Meanwhile, NBGQDs-ICG promoted phagocytosis of Aβ42 by microglia. In addition, the good biocompatibility and stability ensured the biosafety of NBGQDs-ICG in future clinical applications. We anticipate that such multifunctional nanocomponents may provide promising avenues for the development of novel AD inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongtong Hou
- Department of Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, PR China
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, PR China
| | - Minling Ding
- Department of Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, PR China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, PR China
| | - Kun Mei
- Department of Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, PR China
| | - Ping Guan
- Department of Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, PR China.
| | - Chaoli Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, PR China.
| | - Xiaoling Hu
- Department of Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, PR China.
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2
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Ahanger IA, Dar TA. Small molecule modulators of Alpha-Synuclein Aggregation and Toxicity: Pioneering an Emerging Arsenal Against Parkinson's Disease. Ageing Res Rev 2024:102538. [PMID: 39389237 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 10/01/2024] [Accepted: 10/03/2024] [Indexed: 10/12/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is primarily characterized by loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta region of the brain and accumulation of aggregated forms of alpha-synuclein (α-Syn), an intrinsically disordered protein, in the form of Lewy Bodies and Lewy Neurites. Substantial evidences point to the aggregated/fibrillar forms of α-Syn as a central event in PD pathogenesis, underscoring the modulation of α-Syn aggregation as a promising strategy for PD treatment. Consequently, numerous anti-aggregation agents, spanning from small molecules to polymers, have been scrutinized for their potential to mitigate α-Syn aggregation and its associated toxicity. Among these, small molecule modulators like osmoprotectants, polyphenols, cellular metabolites, metals, and peptides have emerged as promising candidates with significant potential in PD management. This article offers a comprehensive overview of the effects of these small molecule modulators on the aggregation propensity and associated toxicity of α-Syn and its PD-associated mutants. It serves as a valuable resource for identifying and developing potent, non-invasive, non-toxic, and highly specific small molecule-based therapeutic arsenal for combating PD. Additionally, it raises pertinent questions aimed at guiding future research endeavours in the field of α-Syn aggregation remodelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishfaq Ahmad Ahanger
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Kashmir, Srinagar 190006, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
| | - Tanveer Ali Dar
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Kashmir, Srinagar 190006, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
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3
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Zhai Y, Shi Z, Xia Q, Han W, Li W, Deng X, Zhang X. Lithiation: Advancing Material Synthesis and Structural Engineering for Emerging Applications. ACS NANO 2024; 18:26477-26502. [PMID: 39301666 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c09114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Lithiation, a process of inserting lithium ions into a host material, is revolutionizing nanomaterials synthesis and structural engineering as well as enhancing their performance across emerging applications, particularly valuable for large-scale synthesis of high-quality low-dimensional nanomaterials. Through a systematic investigation of the synthetic strategies and structural changes induced by lithiation, this review aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the development, potential, and challenges associated with this promising approach. First, the basic principles of lithiation/delithiation processes will be introduced. Then, the recent advancements in the lithiation-induced structure changes of nanomaterials, such as morphology tuning, phase transition, defect generation, etc., will be stressed, emphasizing the importance of lithiation in structural modulation of nanomaterials. With the tunable structures induced by the lithiation, the properties and performance in electrochemical, photochemical, electronic devices, bioapplications, etc. will be discussed, followed by outlining the current challenges and perspectives in this research area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjie Zhai
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Zhenqi Shi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Qing Xia
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Wenkai Han
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Weisong Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Xiaoran Deng
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory in Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
- Research Institute for Advanced Manufacturing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
- Research Institute for Smart Energy, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
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4
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Tang J, Hu J, Bai X, Wang Y, Cai J, Zhang Z, Geng B, Pan D, Shen L. Near-Infrared Carbon Dots With Antibacterial and Osteogenic Activities for Sonodynamic Therapy of Infected Bone Defects. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2404900. [PMID: 39295501 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202404900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024]
Abstract
Repairing infected bone defects is hindered by the presence of stubborn bacterial infections and inadequate osteogenic activity. The incorporation of harmful antibiotics not only fosters the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria, but also diminishes the osteogenic properties of scaffold materials. In addition, it is essential to continuously monitor the degradation kinetics of scaffold materials at bone defect sites, yet the majority of bone repair materials lack imaging capability. To address these issues, this study reports for the first time the development of a single nanomaterial with triple functionality: efficient sonodynamic antibacterial activity, accelerated bone defect repair capability, and NIR imaging ability for visualized therapy of infected bone defects. Through rationally regulating the surface functional groups, the obtained multifunctional NIR carbon dots (NIR-CD) exhibit p-n junction-enhanced sonodynamic activity, narrow bandgap-facilitated NIR imaging capability, and negative charge-augmented osteogenic activity. The validation of NIR-CDs antibacterial and osteogenic activities in vivo is conducted by constructing 3D injectable hydrogels encapsulated by NIR-CDs (NIR-CD/GelMA). The implantation of multifunctional NIR-CD/GelMA hydrogel scaffolds in a model of MRSA-infected craniotomy defects results in almost complete restoration of the infected bone defects after 60 days. These findings will provide traceable, renewable, repairable and antibacterial candidate biomaterials for bone tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfei Tang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Jinyan Hu
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Xue Bai
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Jinming Cai
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Zhenlin Zhang
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Bijiang Geng
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Dengyu Pan
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Longxiang Shen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
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5
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Zheng JJ, Li QZ, Wang Z, Wang X, Zhao Y, Gao X. Computer-aided nanodrug discovery: recent progress and future prospects. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:9059-9132. [PMID: 39148378 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00575e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Nanodrugs, which utilise nanomaterials in disease prevention and therapy, have attracted considerable interest since their initial conceptualisation in the 1990s. Substantial efforts have been made to develop nanodrugs for overcoming the limitations of conventional drugs, such as low targeting efficacy, high dosage and toxicity, and potential drug resistance. Despite the significant progress that has been made in nanodrug discovery, the precise design or screening of nanomaterials with desired biomedical functions prior to experimentation remains a significant challenge. This is particularly the case with regard to personalised precision nanodrugs, which require the simultaneous optimisation of the structures, compositions, and surface functionalities of nanodrugs. The development of powerful computer clusters and algorithms has made it possible to overcome this challenge through in silico methods, which provide a comprehensive understanding of the medical functions of nanodrugs in relation to their physicochemical properties. In addition, machine learning techniques have been widely employed in nanodrug research, significantly accelerating the understanding of bio-nano interactions and the development of nanodrugs. This review will present a summary of the computational advances in nanodrug discovery, focusing on the understanding of how the key interfacial interactions, namely, surface adsorption, supramolecular recognition, surface catalysis, and chemical conversion, affect the therapeutic efficacy of nanodrugs. Furthermore, this review will discuss the challenges and opportunities in computer-aided nanodrug discovery, with particular emphasis on the integrated "computation + machine learning + experimentation" strategy that can potentially accelerate the discovery of precision nanodrugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Jia Zheng
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China.
| | - Qiao-Zhi Li
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China.
| | - Zhenzhen Wang
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China.
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuliang Zhao
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China.
| | - Xingfa Gao
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China.
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6
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Manoharan D, Wang LC, Chen YC, Li WP, Yeh CS. Catalytic Nanoparticles in Biomedical Applications: Exploiting Advanced Nanozymes for Therapeutics and Diagnostics. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2400746. [PMID: 38683107 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Catalytic nanoparticles (CNPs) as heterogeneous catalyst reveals superior activity due to their physio-chemical features, such as high surface-to-volume ratio and unique optical, electric, and magnetic properties. The CNPs, based on their physio-chemical nature, can either increase the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level for tumor and antibacterial therapy or eliminate the ROS for cytoprotection, anti-inflammation, and anti-aging. In addition, the catalytic activity of nanozymes can specifically trigger a specific reaction accompanied by the optical feature change, presenting the feasibility of biosensor and bioimaging applications. Undoubtedly, CNPs play a pivotal role in pushing the evolution of technologies in medical and clinical fields, and advanced strategies and nanomaterials rely on the input of chemical experts to develop. Herein, a systematic and comprehensive review of the challenges and recent development of CNPs for biomedical applications is presented from the viewpoint of advanced nanomaterial with unique catalytic activity and additional functions. Furthermore, the biosafety issue of applying biodegradable and non-biodegradable nanozymes and future perspectives are critically discussed to guide a promising direction in developing span-new nanozymes and more intelligent strategies for overcoming the current clinical limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divinah Manoharan
- Department of Chemistry, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Material and Medicinal Chemistry, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
| | - Liu-Chun Wang
- Department of Chemistry, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
- Center of Applied Nanomedicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chi Chen
- Department of Chemistry, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Peng Li
- Center of Applied Nanomedicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
- Department of Medicinal and Applied Chemistry, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
- Drug Development and Value Creation Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Sheng Yeh
- Department of Chemistry, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Material and Medicinal Chemistry, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
- Center of Applied Nanomedicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
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7
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Kim J, Johnson DH, Bharucha TS, Yoo JM, Zeno WF. Graphene Quantum Dots Inhibit Lipid Peroxidation in Biological Membranes. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:5597-5608. [PMID: 39032174 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.4c00688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cellular environments leads to oxidative stress, which underlies numerous diseases, including inflammatory diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Oxidative stress can be particularly damaging to biological membranes such as those found in mitochondria, which are abundant with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Oxidation of these biological membranes results in concomitant disruption of membrane structure and function, which ultimately leads to cellular dysfunction. Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have garnered significant interest as a therapeutic agent for numerous diseases that are linked to oxidative stress. Specifically, GQDs have demonstrated an ability to protect mitochondrial structure and function under oxidative stress conditions. However, the fundamental mechanisms by which GQDs interact with membranes in oxidative environments are poorly understood. Here, we used C11-BODIPY, a fluorescent lipid oxidation probe, to develop quantitative fluorescence assays that determine both the extent and rate of oxidation that occurs to PUFAs in biological membranes. Based on kinetics principles, we have developed a generalizable model that can be used to assess the potency of antioxidants that scavenge ROS in the presence of biological membranes. By augmenting our fluorescence assays with 1H NMR spectroscopy, the results demonstrate that GQDs scavenge nascent hydroxyl and peroxyl ROS that interact with membranes and that GQDs are potent inhibitors of ROS-induced lipid oxidation in PUFA-containing biological membranes. The antioxidant potency of GQDs is comparable to or even greater than established antioxidant molecules, such as ascorbic acid and Trolox. This work provides mechanistic insights into the mitoprotective properties of GQDs under oxidative stress conditions, as well as a quantitative framework for assessing antioxidant interactions in biological membrane systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juhee Kim
- Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, United States
| | - David H Johnson
- Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, United States
| | - Trushita S Bharucha
- Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, United States
| | - Je Min Yoo
- Chaperone Ventures LLC., Los Angeles, California 90005, United States
| | - Wade F Zeno
- Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, United States
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8
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Fernández-Serra R, Lekouaghet A, Peracho L, Yonesi M, Alcázar A, Chioua M, Marco-Contelles J, Pérez-Rigueiro J, Rojo FJ, Panetsos F, Guinea GV, González-Nieto D. Permselectivity of Silk Fibroin Hydrogels for Advanced Drug Delivery Neurotherapies. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:5233-5250. [PMID: 39018332 PMCID: PMC11323009 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
A promising trend in tissue engineering is using biomaterials to improve the control of drug concentration in targeted tissue. These vehicular systems are of specific interest when the required treatment time window is higher than the stability of therapeutic molecules in the body. Herein, the capacity of silk fibroin hydrogels to release different molecules and drugs in a sustained manner was evaluated. We found that a biomaterial format, obtained by an entirely aqueous-based process, could release molecules of variable molecular weight and charge with a preferential delivery of negatively charged molecules. Although the theoretical modeling suggested that drug delivery was more likely to be driven by Fickian diffusion, the external media had a considerable influence on the release, with lipophilic organic solvents such as acetonitrile-methanol (ACN-MeOH) intensifying the release of hydrophobic molecules. Second, we found that silk fibroin could be used as a vehicular system to treat a variety of brain disorders as this biomaterial sustained the release of different factors with neurotrophic (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) (BDNF), chemoattractant (C-X-C motif chemokine 12) (CXCL12), anti-inflammatory (TGF-β-1), and angiogenic (VEGF) capacities. Finally, we demonstrated that this biomaterial hydrogel could release cholesteronitrone ISQ201, a nitrone with antioxidant capacity, showing neuroprotective activity in an in vitro model of ischemia-reoxygenation. Given the slow degradation rate shown by silk fibroin in many biological tissues, including the nervous system, our study expands the restricted list of drug delivery-based biomaterial systems with therapeutic capacity for both short- and especially long-term treatment windows and has merit for use with brain pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocío Fernández-Serra
- Center
for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica
de Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcón 28223, Spain
- Silk
Biomed SL, Calle Navacerrada
18, Urb. Puerto Galapagar. Galapagar 28260, Spain
| | - Amira Lekouaghet
- Center
for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica
de Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcón 28223, Spain
| | - Lorena Peracho
- Department
of Research, Hospital Universitario Ramón
y Cajal, Madrid 28034, Spain
- Proteomics
Unit, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de
Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid 28034, Spain
| | - Mahdi Yonesi
- Center
for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica
de Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcón 28223, Spain
| | - Alberto Alcázar
- Department
of Research, Hospital Universitario Ramón
y Cajal, Madrid 28034, Spain
- Proteomics
Unit, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de
Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid 28034, Spain
| | - Mourad Chioua
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of General
Organic Chemistry (CSIC), Madrid 28006, Spain
| | - José Marco-Contelles
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of General
Organic Chemistry (CSIC), Madrid 28006, Spain
- Center
for
Biomedical Network Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), CIBER, ISCIII, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - José Pérez-Rigueiro
- Center
for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica
de Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcón 28223, Spain
- Silk
Biomed SL, Calle Navacerrada
18, Urb. Puerto Galapagar. Galapagar 28260, Spain
- Departamento
de Ciencia de Materiales, ETSI Caminos, Canales y Puertos, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid 28040, Spain
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería,
Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
- Biomaterials
and Regenerative Medicine Group, Instituto de Investigación
Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Calle Prof. Martín Lagos s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Francisco J. Rojo
- Center
for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica
de Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcón 28223, Spain
- Silk
Biomed SL, Calle Navacerrada
18, Urb. Puerto Galapagar. Galapagar 28260, Spain
- Departamento
de Ciencia de Materiales, ETSI Caminos, Canales y Puertos, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid 28040, Spain
- Biomaterials
and Regenerative Medicine Group, Instituto de Investigación
Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Calle Prof. Martín Lagos s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Fivos Panetsos
- Silk
Biomed SL, Calle Navacerrada
18, Urb. Puerto Galapagar. Galapagar 28260, Spain
- Biomaterials
and Regenerative Medicine Group, Instituto de Investigación
Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Calle Prof. Martín Lagos s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain
- Neurocomputing
and Neurorobotics Research Group, Faculty of Biology and Faculty of
Optics, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Gustavo V. Guinea
- Center
for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica
de Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcón 28223, Spain
- Silk
Biomed SL, Calle Navacerrada
18, Urb. Puerto Galapagar. Galapagar 28260, Spain
- Departamento
de Ciencia de Materiales, ETSI Caminos, Canales y Puertos, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid 28040, Spain
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería,
Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
- Biomaterials
and Regenerative Medicine Group, Instituto de Investigación
Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Calle Prof. Martín Lagos s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Daniel González-Nieto
- Center
for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica
de Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcón 28223, Spain
- Silk
Biomed SL, Calle Navacerrada
18, Urb. Puerto Galapagar. Galapagar 28260, Spain
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería,
Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
- Departamento de
Tecnología Fotónica y Bioingeniería,
ETSI Telecomunicaciones, Universidad Politécnica
de Madrid, Madrid 28040, Spain
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9
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Wu X, Wang G, Zhao Z, Qian Z. In silico study on graphene quantum dots modified with various functional groups inhibiting α‑synuclein dimerization. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 667:723-730. [PMID: 38641462 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.04.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) with various functional groups are hypothesized to inhibit the α-synuclein (αS) dimerization, a crucial step in Parkinson's disease pathogenesis. The potential of differently functionalized GQDs is systematically explored. EXPERIMENTS All-atom replica-exchange molecular dynamics simulations (accumulating to 75.6 μs) in explicit water were performed to study the dimerization of the αS non-amyloid component region and the influence of GQDs modified with various functional groups. Conformation ensemble, binding behavior, and free energy analysis were conducted. FINDINGS All studied GQDs inhibit β-sheet and backbone hydrogen bond formation in αS dimers, leading to looser oligomeric conformations. Charged GQDs severely impede the growth of extended β-sheets by providing extra contact surface. GQD binding primarily disrupts αS inter-peptide interactions through π-π stacking, CH-π interactions, and for charged GQDs, additionally through salt-bridge and hydrogen bonding interactions. GQD-COO- showed the most optimal inhibitory effect, binding mode, and intensity, which holds promise for the development of nanomedicines targeting amyloid aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, and School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, and School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Ziqian Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, and School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Zhenyu Qian
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, and School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200438, China.
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10
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Huang H, Liu W, Lin J, Shu F, Xia Z, Zheng Y. Graphene Quantum Dots Reduce Hypertrophic Scar by Inducing Myofibroblasts To Be a Quiescent State. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:37530-37544. [PMID: 38989714 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c05731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Contrary to the initial belief that myofibroblasts are terminally differentiated cells, myofibroblasts have now been widely recognized as an activation state that is reversible. Therefore, strategies targeting myofibroblast to be a quiescent state may be an effective way for antihypertrophic scar therapy. Graphene quantum dots (GQDs), a novel zero-dimensional and carbon-based nanomaterial, have recently garnered significant interest in nanobiomedicine, owing to their excellent biocompatibility, tunable photoluminescence, and superior physiological stability. Although multiple nanoparticles have been used to alleviate hypertrophic scars, a GQD-based therapy has not been reported. Our in vivo studies showed that GQDs exhibited significant antiscar efficacy, with scar appearance improvement, collagen reduction and rearrangement, and inhibition of myofibroblast overproliferation. Further in vitro experiments revealed that GQDs inhibited α-SMA expression, collagen synthesis, and cell proliferation and migration, inducing myofibroblasts to become quiescent fibroblasts. Mechanistic studies have demonstrated that the effect of GQDs on myofibroblast proliferation blocked cell cycle progression by disrupting the cyclin-CDK-E2F axis. This study suggests that GQDs, which promote myofibroblast-to-fibroblast transition, could be a novel antiscar nanomedicine for the treatment of hypertrophic scars and other types of pathological fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongchao Huang
- Department of Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenzhang Liu
- Department of Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiezhi Lin
- Department of Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Futing Shu
- Department of Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaofan Xia
- Department of Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Key Techniques for Treatment of Burns and Combined Burns and Trauma Injury, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongjun Zheng
- Department of Burn Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
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11
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Hu Y, Wang X, Niu Y, He K, Tang M. Application of quantum dots in brain diseases and their neurotoxic mechanism. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2024; 6:3733-3746. [PMID: 39050959 PMCID: PMC11265591 DOI: 10.1039/d4na00028e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The early-stage diagnosis and therapy of brain diseases pose a persistent challenge in the field of biomedicine. Quantum dots (QDs), nano-luminescent materials known for their small size and fluorescence imaging capabilities, present promising capabilities for diagnosing, monitoring, and treating brain diseases. Although some investigations about QDs have been conducted in clinical trials, the concerns about the toxicity of QDs have continued. In addition, the lack of effective toxicity evaluation methods and systems and the difference between in vivo and in vitro toxicity evaluation hinder QDs application. The primary objective of this paper is to introduce the neurotoxic effects and mechanisms attributable to QDs. First, we elucidate the utilization of QDs in brain disorders. Second, we sketch out three pathways through which QDs traverse into brain tissue. Ultimately, expound upon the adverse consequences of QDs on the brain and the mechanism of neurotoxicity in depth. Finally, we provide a comprehensive summary and outlook on the potential development of quantum dots in neurotoxicity and the difficulties to be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Hu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine & Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University Nanjing Jiangsu 210009 China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine & Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University Nanjing Jiangsu 210009 China
| | - Yiru Niu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine & Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University Nanjing Jiangsu 210009 China
| | - Keyu He
- Blood Transfusion Department, Clinical Laboratory, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University Nanjing Jiangsu 210009 China
| | - Meng Tang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine & Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University Nanjing Jiangsu 210009 China
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12
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He M, Zhang X, Ran X, Zhang Y, Nie X, Xiao B, Lei L, Zhai S, Zhu J, Zhang J, Li R, Liu Z, Zhu Y, Dai Z, He Z, Feng J, Zhang C. Black Phosphorus Nanosheets Protect Neurons by Degrading Aggregative α-syn and Clearing ROS in Parkinson's Disease. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2404576. [PMID: 38696266 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202404576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Although evidence indicates that the abnormal accumulation of α-synuclein (α-syn) in dopamine neurons of the substantia nigra is the main pathological feature of Parkinson's disease (PD), no compounds that have both α-syn antiaggregation and α-syn degradation functions have been successful in treating the disease in the clinic. Here, it is shown that black phosphorus nanosheets (BPNSs) interact directly with α-syn fibrils to trigger their disaggregation for PD treatment. Moreover, BPNSs have a specific affinity for α-syn through van der Waals forces. And BPNSs are found to activate autophagy to maintain α-syn homeostasis, improve mitochondrial dysfunction, reduce reactive oxygen species levels, and rescue neuronal death and synaptic loss in PC12 cells. It is also observed that BPNSs penetrate the blood-brain barrier and protect against dopamine neuron loss, alleviating behavioral disorders in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) induced mouse model and hA53T α-syn transgenic mice. Together, the study reveals that BPNSs have the potential as a novel integrated nanomedicine for clinical diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meina He
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
- Department of Biology, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Xiangming Zhang
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
- Department of Biology, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Xia Ran
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
- Department of Biology, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Xiaoran Nie
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
- Department of Biology, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Bo Xiao
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Li Lei
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Suzhen Zhai
- Department of Biology, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - JinMing Zhu
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Rong Li
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Zuoji Liu
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Yuping Zhu
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
- Department of Biology, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Zhijun Dai
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
- Department of Biology, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Zhixu He
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Jian Feng
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
| | - Chunlin Zhang
- Engineering Research Center for Molecular Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
- Department of Biology, College of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 561113, China
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
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13
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Yang Y, Zhang Z. α-Synuclein pathology from the body to the brain: so many seeds so close to the central soil. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1463-1472. [PMID: 38051888 PMCID: PMC10883481 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.387967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT α-Synuclein is a protein that mainly exists in the presynaptic terminals. Abnormal folding and accumulation of α-synuclein are found in several neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease. Aggregated and highly phosphorylated α-synuclein constitutes the main component of Lewy bodies in the brain, the pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease. For decades, much attention has been focused on the accumulation of α-synuclein in the brain parenchyma rather than considering Parkinson's disease as a systemic disease. Recent evidence demonstrates that, at least in some patients, the initial α-synuclein pathology originates in the peripheral organs and spreads to the brain. Injection of α-synuclein preformed fibrils into the gastrointestinal tract triggers the gut-to-brain propagation of α-synuclein pathology. However, whether α-synuclein pathology can occur spontaneously in peripheral organs independent of exogenous α-synuclein preformed fibrils or pathological α-synuclein leakage from the central nervous system remains under investigation. In this review, we aimed to summarize the role of peripheral α-synuclein pathology in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. We also discuss the pathways by which α-synuclein pathology spreads from the body to the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunying Yang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhentao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
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14
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Bae G, Cho H, Hong BH. A review on synthesis, properties, and biomedical applications of graphene quantum dots (GQDs). NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 35:372001. [PMID: 38853586 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ad55d0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
A new type of 0-dimensional carbon-based materials called graphene quantum dots (GQDs) is gaining significant attention as a non-toxic and eco-friendly nanomaterial. GQDs are nanomaterials composed of sp2hybridized carbon domains and functional groups, with their lateral size less than 10 nm. The unique and exceptional physical, chemical, and optical properties arising from the combination of graphene structure and quantum confinement effect due to their nano-size make GQDs more intriguing than other nanomaterials. Particularly, the low toxicity and high solubility derived from the carbon core and abundant edge functional groups offer significant advantages for the application of GQDs in the biomedical field. In this review, we summarize various synthetic methods for preparing GQDs and important factors influencing the physical, chemical, optical, and biological properties of GQDs. Furthermore, the recent application of GQDs in the biomedical field, including biosensor, bioimaging, drug delivery, and therapeutics are discussed. Through this, we provide a brief insight on the tremendous potential of GQDs in biomedical applications and the challenges that need to be overcome in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaeun Bae
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University (SNU), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeonwoo Cho
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University (SNU), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Hee Hong
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University (SNU), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
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15
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Yin X, Zhou H, Cao T, Yang X, Meng F, Dai X, Wang Y, Li S, Zhai W, Yang Z, Chen N, Zhou R. Rational Design of Dual-Functionalized Gd@C 82 Nanoparticles to Relieve Neuronal Cytotoxicity in Alzheimer's Disease via Inhibition of Aβ Aggregation. ACS NANO 2024; 18:15416-15431. [PMID: 38840269 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c08823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides is a major hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and plays a crucial role in its pathogenesis. Particularly, the structured oligomeric species rich in β-sheet formations were implicated in neuronal organelle damage. Addressing this formidable challenge requires identifying candidates capable of inhibiting peptide aggregation or disaggregating preformed oligomers for effective antiaggregation-based AD therapy. Here, we present a dual-functional nanoinhibitor meticulously designed to target the aggregation driving force and amyloid fibril spatial structure. Leveraging the exceptional structural stability and facile tailoring capability of endohedral metallofullerene Gd@C82, we introduce desired hydrogen-binding sites and charged groups, which are abundant on its surface for specific designs. Impressively, these designs endow the resultant functionalized-Gd@C82 nanoparticles (f-Gd@C82 NPs) with high capability of redirecting peptide self-assembly toward disordered, off-pathway species, obstructing the early growth of protofibrils, and disaggregating the preformed well-ordered protofibrils or even mature Aβ fibrils. This results in considerable alleviation of Aβ peptide-induced neuronal cytotoxicity, rescuing neuronal death and synaptic loss in primary neuron models. Notably, these modifications significantly improved the dispersibility of f-Gd@C82 NPs, thus substantially enhancing its bioavailability. Moreover, f-Gd@C82 NPs demonstrate excellent cytocompatibility with various cell lines and possess the ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier in mice. Large-scale molecular dynamics simulations illuminate the inhibition and disaggregation mechanisms. Our design successfully overcomes the limitations of other nanocandidates, which often overly rely on hydrophobic interactions or photothermal conversion properties, and offers a viable direction for developing anti-AD agents through the inhibition and even reversal of Aβ aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuhua Yin
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, Shanghai Institute for Advanced Study, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Hong Zhou
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, Shanghai Institute for Advanced Study, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Tiantian Cao
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
- Suzhou Institute of Trade and Commerce, Suzhou 215009, China
| | - Xiner Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Fei Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Xing Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yifan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Sijie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Wangsong Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Zaixing Yang
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, Shanghai Institute for Advanced Study, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Ning Chen
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Ruhong Zhou
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, Shanghai Institute for Advanced Study, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, New York 10027, United States
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16
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Wilson DL, Carreon A, Chinnam S, Sharifan H, Ahlawat J, Narayan M. Screening Carbon Nano Materials for Preventing Amyloid Protein Aggregation by Adopting a Facile Method. Cell Biochem Biophys 2024; 82:1389-1395. [PMID: 38802601 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-024-01293-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The soluble-to-toxic transformation of intrinsically disordered amyloidogenic proteins such as amyloid beta (Aβ), α-synuclein, mutant Huntingtin Protein (mHTT) and islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) among others are associated with disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD) and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), respectively. The dissolution of mature fibrils and toxic amyloidogenic intermediates, including oligomers, continues to be the pinnacle in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. Yet, methods to effectively and quantitatively report on the interconversion between amyloid monomers, oligomers and mature fibrils fall short. Here we describe a simplified method that implements the use of gel electrophoresis to address the transformation between soluble monomeric amyloid proteins and mature amyloid fibrils. The technique implements an optimized but well-known, simple, inexpensive, and quantitative assessment previously used to assess the oligomerization of amyloid monomers and subsequent amyloid fibrils. This method facilitates the screening of small molecules that disintegrate oligomers and fibrils into monomers, dimers, and trimers and/or retain amyloid proteins in their monomeric forms. Most importantly, our optimized method diminishes existing barriers associated with existing (alternative) techniques to evaluate fibril formation and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy L Wilson
- The Environmental Science & Engineering Program, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79968, USA
| | - Ana Carreon
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), El Paso, TX, 79968, USA
| | - Sampath Chinnam
- Department of Chemistry, M.S. Ramaiah Institute of Technology (Autonoumous Institution, Affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belgaum), Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560054, India
| | - Hamidreza Sharifan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), El Paso, TX, 79968, USA
| | - Jyoti Ahlawat
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), El Paso, TX, 79968, USA.
| | - Mahesh Narayan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), El Paso, TX, 79968, USA.
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17
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Deng S, Zhang E, Zhao Y, Guo H, Luo L, Yi S, Zheng B, Mu X, Yuan K, Deng X, Rong H, Ma Y, Bian W, Shen H. Graphene oxide quantum dots (GOQDs) induce behavioral disorders via the disturbance of kynurenine pathway in zebrafish larvae. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 279:109865. [PMID: 38403007 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) expands the use of graphene derivatives in nanomedicine for its direct therapeutic applications in treating neurodegeneration, inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and among others. Nevertheless, the biosafety assessment of GQDs remains deficient mostly because of the diverse surface characteristics of the nanoparticles. Our prior work demonstrated that GQDs can induce strong thigmotactic effects in zebrafish larvae over a wide range of concentrations, yet the underlying metabolic mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, we conducted a further exploration about graphene oxide quantum dots (GOQDs) for its potential neurotoxic effect on the behaviors of zebrafish larvae by combining neurotransmitter-targeted metabolomics with locomotion analysis. After continuous exposure to a concentration gradient of GOQDs (12.5 - 25 - 50 - 100 - 200 μg/mL) for 7 days, the thigmotactic activities of zebrafish larvae were observed across all exposure concentrations relative to the control group, while the basal locomotor activities, including distance moved and average velocity, were significantly changed by low concentrations of GOQDs. Targeted metabolomics was performed using zebrafish larvae at 7 days post-fertilization (dpf) that were exposed to 12.5 and 200 μg/mL, both of which were found to perturb the kynurenine pathway by regulating the levels of kynurenine, 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (3-HAA), and quinolinic acid (QA). Furthermore, the thigmotaxis of larval fish induced by GOQDs during exposure could be counteracted by supplementing Ro-61-8048, an agonist acting on kynurenine 3-monooxygenase (KMO). In conclusion, our study establishes the involvement of the kynurenine pathway in GOQDs-induced thigmotaxis, which is independent of the transcriptional modulation of glutamate receptor families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Deng
- Sichuan Provincial Orthopedic Hospital, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Enming Zhang
- School of Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy, Beijing Sport University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yunyang Zhao
- Scientific Research Center, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Hao Guo
- School of Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy, Beijing Sport University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Lan Luo
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Chongqing 400714, China
| | - Song Yi
- Sichuan Provincial Orthopedic Hospital, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bingxin Zheng
- Sichuan Provincial Orthopedic Hospital, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Mu
- Sichuan Provincial Orthopedic Hospital, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Kezhu Yuan
- Sichuan Provincial Orthopedic Hospital, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xuangen Deng
- Sichuan Provincial Orthopedic Hospital, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Haibo Rong
- Sichuan Provincial Orthopedic Hospital, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yanbo Ma
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Chongqing 400714, China
| | - Wanping Bian
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Chongqing 400714, China
| | - Hai Shen
- Sichuan Provincial Orthopedic Hospital, Chengdu 610041, China.
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18
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Ansari MA, Tripathi T, Venkidasamy B, Monziani A, Rajakumar G, Alomary MN, Alyahya SA, Onimus O, D'souza N, Barkat MA, Al-Suhaimi EA, Samynathan R, Thiruvengadam M. Multifunctional Nanocarriers for Alzheimer's Disease: Befriending the Barriers. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:3042-3089. [PMID: 37966683 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03730-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) have been increasing in incidence in recent years and are now widespread worldwide. Neuronal death is defined as the progressive loss of neuronal structure or function which is closely associated with NDDs and represents the intrinsic features of such disorders. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, frontotemporal dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases (AD, PD, and HD, respectively) are considered neurodegenerative diseases that affect a large number of people worldwide. Despite the testing of various drugs, there is currently no available therapy that can remedy or effectively slow the progression of these diseases. Nanomedicine has the potential to revolutionize drug delivery for the management of NDDs. The use of nanoparticles (NPs) has recently been developed to improve drug delivery efficiency and is currently subjected to extensive studies. Nanoengineered particles, known as nanodrugs, can cross the blood-brain barrier while also being less invasive compared to the most treatment strategies in use. Polymeric, magnetic, carbonic, and inorganic NPs are examples of NPs that have been developed to improve drug delivery efficiency. Primary research studies using NPs to cure AD are promising, but thorough research is needed to introduce these approaches to clinical use. In the present review, we discussed the role of metal-based NPs, polymeric nanogels, nanocarrier systems such as liposomes, solid lipid NPs, polymeric NPs, exosomes, quantum dots, dendrimers, polymersomes, carbon nanotubes, and nanofibers and surfactant-based systems for the therapy of neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, we highlighted nanoformulations such as N-butyl cyanoacrylate, poly(butyl cyanoacrylate), D-penicillamine, citrate-coated peptide, magnetic iron oxide, chitosan (CS), lipoprotein, ceria, silica, metallic nanoparticles, cholinesterase inhibitors, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, metal chelators, anti-amyloid, protein, and peptide-loaded NPs for the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Azam Ansari
- Department of Epidemic Disease Research, Institute for Research & Medical Consultations, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, 31441, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Takshashila Tripathi
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology & Pharmacology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Baskar Venkidasamy
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600077, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Alan Monziani
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Govindasamy Rajakumar
- Department of Orthodontics, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600077, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mohammad N Alomary
- Advanced Diagnostic and Therapeutic Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, 11442, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sami A Alyahya
- Wellness and Preventive Medicine Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, 11442, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Oriane Onimus
- Faculty of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Paris, Paris, France
| | - Naomi D'souza
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Md Abul Barkat
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Hafr Al-Batin, Hafr Al-Batin, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ebtesam A Al-Suhaimi
- Research Consultation Department, Vice Presidency for Scientific Research and Innovation, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, 31441, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ramkumar Samynathan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600077, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Muthu Thiruvengadam
- Department of Crop Science, College of Sanghuh Life Science, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea.
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19
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Zhang H, Guo H, Li D, Zhang Y, Zhang S, Kang W, Liu C, Le W, Wang L, Li D, Dai B. Halogen doped graphene quantum dots modulate TDP-43 phase separation and aggregation in the nucleus. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2980. [PMID: 38582774 PMCID: PMC10998863 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47167-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
TDP-43 is implicated in the dynamic formation of nuclear bodies and stress granules through phase separation. In diseased states, it can further condense into pathological aggregates in the nucleus and cytoplasm, contributing to the onset of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In this study, we evaluate the effect of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) with different functional groups on TDP-43's phase separation and aggregation in various cellular locations. We find that halogen atom-doped GQDs (GQDs-Cl, Cl-GQDs-OH) penetrate the nuclear envelope, inhibiting the assembly of TDP-43 nuclear bodies and stress granules under oxidative stress or hyperosmotic environments, and reduce amyloid aggregates and disease-associated phosphorylation of TDP-43. Mechanistic analysis reveals GQDs-Cl and Cl-GQDs-OH modulate TDP-43 phase separation through hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions. Our findings highlight the potential of GQDs-Cl and Cl-GQDs-OH in modulating nuclear protein condensation and pathological aggregation, offering direction for the innovative design of GQDs to modulate protein phase separation and aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Zhang
- School of Sensing Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Huazhang Guo
- Institute of Nanochemistry and Nanobiology, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Baoshan District, Shanghai, 200444, PR China
| | - Danni Li
- School of Sensing Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yiling Zhang
- School of Sensing Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Shengnan Zhang
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Wenyan Kang
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Department of Neurology, Ruijin Hainan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (Boao Research Hospital), Hainan, 571434, China
| | - Cong Liu
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Weidong Le
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, 201318, China
- Center for Clinical and Translational Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, 201318, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Institute of Nanochemistry and Nanobiology, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Baoshan District, Shanghai, 200444, PR China.
| | - Dan Li
- Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
- Bio-X-Renji Hospital Research Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Bin Dai
- School of Sensing Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
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20
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Asil SM, Narayan M. Molecular interactions between gelatin-derived carbon quantum dots and Apo-myoglobin: Implications for carbon nanomaterial frameworks. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 264:130416. [PMID: 38428776 PMCID: PMC11290343 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Carbon nanomaterials (CNMs), including carbon quantum dots (CQDs), have found widespread use in biomedical research due to their low toxicity, chemical tunability, and tailored applications. Yet, there exists a gap in our understanding of the molecular interactions between biomacromolecules and these novel carbon-centered platforms. Using gelatin-derived CQDs as a model CNM, we have examined the impact of this exemplar nanomaterial on apo-myoglobin (apo-Mb), an oxygen-storage protein. Intrinsic fluorescence measurements revealed that the CQDs induced conformational changes in the tertiary structure of native, partially unfolded, and unfolded states of apo-Mb. Titration with CQDs also resulted in significant changes in the secondary structural elements in both native (holo) and apo-Mb, as evidenced by the circular dichroism (CD) analyses. These changes suggested a transition from isolated helices to coiled-coils during the loss of the helical structure of the apo-protein. Infra-red spectroscopic data further underscored the interactions between the CQDs and the amide backbone of apo-myoglobin. Importantly, the CQDs-driven structural perturbations resulted in compromised heme binding to apo-myoglobin and, therefore, potentially can attenuate oxygen storage and diffusion. However, a cytotoxicity assay demonstrated the continued viability of neuroblastoma cells exposed to these carbon nanomaterials. These results, for the first time, provide a molecular roadmap of the interplay between carbon-based nanomaterial frameworks and biomacromolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shima Masoudi Asil
- The Environmental Science & Engineering Program, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Mahesh Narayan
- The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA.
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21
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Liang X, Andrikopoulos N, Tang H, Wang Y, Ding F, Ke PC. Nanoplastic Stimulates the Amyloidogenesis of Parkinson's Alpha-Synuclein NACore. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2308753. [PMID: 37988678 PMCID: PMC10994764 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202308753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Environmental plastic wastes are potential health hazards due to their prevalence as well as their versatility in initiating physical, chemical, and biological interactions and transformations. Indeed, recent research has implicated the adverse effects of micro- and nano-plastics, including their neurotoxicity, yet how plastic particulates may impact the aggregation pathway and toxicity of amyloid proteins pertinent to the pathologies of neurological diseases remains unknown. Here, electrospray ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (ESI-TOF-MS) is employed to reveal the polymorphic oligomerization of NACore, a surrogate of alpha-synuclein that is associated with the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. These data indicate that the production rate and population of the NACore oligomers are modulated by their exposure to a polystyrene nanoplastic, and these cellular assays further reveal an elevated NACore toxicity in microglial cells elicited by the nanoplastic. These simulations confirm that the nanoplastic-NACore association is promoted by their hydrophobic interactions. These findings are corroborated by an impairment in zebrafish hatching, survival, and development in vivo upon their embryonic exposure to the nanoplastic. Together, this study has uncovered the dynamics and mechanism of amyloidogenesis elevated by a nanoplastic trigger, shedding a new light on the neurological burden of plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiufang Liang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Guangzhou International Campus, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Nanomedicine Center, The Great Bay Area National Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation, 136 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510700, China
| | - Nicholas Andrikopoulos
- Nanomedicine Center, The Great Bay Area National Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation, 136 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510700, China
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Huayuan Tang
- College of Mechanics and Materials, Hohai University, Nanjing, 211100, China
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Yue Wang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Guangzhou International Campus, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Nanomedicine Center, The Great Bay Area National Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation, 136 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510700, China
| | - Feng Ding
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Pu Chun Ke
- Nanomedicine Center, The Great Bay Area National Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation, 136 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510700, China
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
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22
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Wilson DL, Carreon A, Chinnam S, Sharifan H, Ahlawat J, Narayan M. Screening Carbon Nano Materials for preventing amyloid protein aggregation by adopting a facile method. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4164618. [PMID: 38585783 PMCID: PMC10996794 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4164618/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
The soluble-to-toxic transformation of intrinsically disordered amyloidogenic proteins such as amyloid beta (Aβ), α-synuclein, mutant Huntingtin Protein (mHTT) and islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) among others is associated with disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD) and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), respectively. The dissolution of mature fibrils and toxic amyloidogenic intermediates including oligomers continues to be the pinnacle in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. Yet, methods to effectively, and quantitatively, report on the interconversion between amyloid monomers, oligomers and mature fibrils fall short. Here we describe a simplified method that implements the use of gel electrophoresis to address the transformation between soluble monomeric amyloid proteins and mature amyloid fibrils. The technique implements an optimized but well-known, simple, inexpensive and quantitative assessment previously used to assess the oligomerization of amyloid monomers and subsequent amyloid fibrils. This method facilitates the screening of small molecules that disintegrate oligomers and fibrils into monomers, dimers, and trimers and/or retain amyloid proteins in their monomeric forms. Most importantly, our optimized method diminishes existing barriers associated with existing (alternative) techniques to evaluate fibril formation and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sampath Chinnam
- M.S. Ramaiah Institute of Technology (Autonoumous Institution, Affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University
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23
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Sharma M, Choudhury S, Babu A, Gupta V, Sengupta D, Ali SA, Dhokne MD, Datusalia AK, Mandal D, Panda JJ. Futuristic Alzheimer's therapy: acoustic-stimulated piezoelectric nanospheres for amyloid reduction. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:1801-1821. [PMID: 38407241 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm01688a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
The degeneration of neurons due to the accumulation of misfolded amyloid aggregates in the central nervous system (CNS) is a fundamental neuropathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). It is believed that dislodging/clearing these amyloid aggregates from the neuronal tissues could lead to a potential cure for AD. In the present work, we explored biocompatible polydopamine-coated piezoelectric polyvinylidene fluoride (DPVDF) nanospheres as acoustic stimulus-triggered anti-fibrillating and anti-amyloid agents. The nanospheres were tested against two model amyloidogenic peptides, including the reductionist model-based amyloidogenic dipeptide, diphenylalanine, and the amyloid polypeptide, amyloid beta (Aβ42). Our results revealed that DPVDF nanospheres could effectively disassemble the model peptide-derived amyloid fibrils under suitable acoustic stimulation. In vitro studies also showed that the stimulus activated DPVDF nanospheres could efficiently alleviate the neurotoxicity of FF fibrils as exemplified in neuroblastoma, SHSY5Y, cells. Studies carried out in animal models further validated that the nanospheres could dislodge amyloid aggregates in vivo and also help the animals regain their cognitive behavior. Thus, these acoustic stimuli-activated nanospheres could serve as a novel class of disease-modifying nanomaterials for non-invasive electro-chemotherapy of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manju Sharma
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali-140306, Punjab, India.
| | - Samraggi Choudhury
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali-140306, Punjab, India.
| | - Anand Babu
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali-140306, Punjab, India.
| | - Varun Gupta
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali-140306, Punjab, India.
| | - Dipanjan Sengupta
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali-140306, Punjab, India.
| | - Syed Afroz Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli-226002, UP, India
| | - Mrunali D Dhokne
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli-226002, UP, India
| | - Ashok Kumar Datusalia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli-226002, UP, India
| | - Dipankar Mandal
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali-140306, Punjab, India.
| | - Jiban Jyoti Panda
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali-140306, Punjab, India.
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24
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Lin P, Zhang B, Yang H, Yang S, Xue P, Chen Y, Yu S, Zhang J, Zhang Y, Chen L, Fan C, Li F, Ling D. An artificial protein modulator reprogramming neuronal protein functions. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2039. [PMID: 38448420 PMCID: PMC10917760 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46308-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Reversible protein phosphorylation, regulated by protein phosphatases, fine-tunes target protein function and plays a vital role in biological processes. Dysregulation of this process leads to aberrant post-translational modifications (PTMs) and contributes to disease development. Despite the widespread use of artificial catalysts as enzyme mimetics, their direct modulation of proteins remains largely unexplored. To address this gap and enable the reversal of aberrant PTMs for disease therapy, we present the development of artificial protein modulators (APROMs). Through atomic-level engineering of heterogeneous catalysts with asymmetric catalytic centers, these modulators bear structural similarities to protein phosphatases and exhibit remarkable ability to destabilize the bridging μ3-hydroxide. This activation of catalytic centers enables spontaneous hydrolysis of phospho-substrates, providing precise control over PTMs. Notably, APROMs, with protein phosphatase-like characteristics, catalytically reprogram the biological function of α-synuclein by directly hydrolyzing hyperphosphorylated α-synuclein. Consequently, synaptic function is reinforced in Parkinson's disease. Our findings offer a promising avenue for reprogramming protein function through de novo PTMs strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peihua Lin
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, National Center for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, National Center for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- World Laureates Association (WLA) Laboratories, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Hongli Yang
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Shengfei Yang
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Pengpeng Xue
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Shiyi Yu
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jichao Zhang
- Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Yixiao Zhang
- In-situ Center for Physical Sciences, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Electrochemical Energy Device Research Center (SEED), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Liwei Chen
- In-situ Center for Physical Sciences, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Electrochemical Energy Device Research Center (SEED), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Future Battery Research Center, Global Institute of Future Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Chunhai Fan
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, National Center for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Fangyuan Li
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Songjiang Research Institute, Songjiang Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201600, China.
- Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
| | - Daishun Ling
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, National Center for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
- World Laureates Association (WLA) Laboratories, Shanghai, 201210, China.
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25
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Yang S, Baeg E, Kim K, Kim D, Xu D, Ahn JH, Yang S. Neurodiagnostic and neurotherapeutic potential of graphene nanomaterials. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 247:115906. [PMID: 38101185 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Graphene has emerged as a highly promising nanomaterial for a variety of advanced technologies, including batteries, energy, electronics, and biotechnologies. Its recent contribution to neurotechnology is particularly noteworthy because its superior conductivity, chemical resilience, biocompatibility, thermal stability, and scalable nature make it well-suited for measuring brain activity and plasticity in health and disease. Graphene-mediated compounds are microfabricated in two central methods: chemical processes with natural graphite and chemical vapor deposition of graphene in a film form. They are widely used as biosensors and bioelectronics for neurodiagnostic and neurotherapeutic purposes in several brain disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, stroke, glioma, epilepsy, tinnitus, and Alzheimer's disease. This review provides an overview of studies that have demonstrated the technical advances of graphene nanomaterials in neuroscientific and clinical applications. We also discuss current limitations and future demands in relation to the clinical application of graphene, highlighting its potential technological and clinical significance for treating brain disorders. Our review underscores the potential of graphene nanomaterials as powerful tools for advancing the understanding of the brain and developing new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunggu Yang
- Department of Nano-bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon, 22012, Republic of Korea; Center for Brain-Machine Interface, Incheon National University, Incheon, 22012, Republic of Korea; gBrain Inc., Incheon, 21984, Republic of Korea.
| | - Eunha Baeg
- Department of Nano-bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon, 22012, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungtae Kim
- Department of Nano-bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon, 22012, Republic of Korea
| | - Donggue Kim
- Department of Nano-bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon, 22012, Republic of Korea
| | - Duo Xu
- School of Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Hyun Ahn
- School of Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sungchil Yang
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
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26
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Andrikopoulos N, Tang H, Wang Y, Liang X, Li Y, Davis TP, Ke PC. Exploring Peptido-Nanocomposites in the Context of Amyloid Diseases. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202309958. [PMID: 37943171 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202309958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic peptides are a major class of pharmaceutical drugs owing to their target-binding specificity as well as their versatility in inhibiting aberrant protein-protein interactions associated with human pathologies. Within the realm of amyloid diseases, the use of peptides and peptidomimetics tailor-designed to overcome amyloidogenesis has been an active research endeavor since the late 90s. In more recent years, incorporating nanoparticles for enhancing the biocirculation and delivery of peptide drugs has emerged as a frontier in nanomedicine, and nanoparticles have further demonstrated a potency against amyloid aggregation and cellular inflammation to rival strategies employing small molecules, peptides, and antibodies. Despite these efforts, however, a fundamental understanding of the chemistry, characteristics and function of peptido-nanocomposites is lacking, and a systematic analysis of such strategy for combating a range of amyloid pathogeneses is missing. Here we review the history, principles and evolving chemistry of constructing peptido-nanocomposites from bottom up and discuss their future application against amyloid diseases that debilitate a significant portion of the global population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Andrikopoulos
- Nanomedicine Center, The Great Bay Area National Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation, 136 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510700, China
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Huayuan Tang
- College of Mechanics and Materials, Hohai University, Nanjing, 211100, China
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
| | - Yue Wang
- Nanomedicine Center, The Great Bay Area National Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation, 136 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510700, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Guangzhou International Campus, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xiufang Liang
- Nanomedicine Center, The Great Bay Area National Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation, 136 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510700, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Guangzhou International Campus, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yuhuan Li
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Thomas P Davis
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Pu Chun Ke
- Nanomedicine Center, The Great Bay Area National Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation, 136 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510700, China
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia
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27
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Cho H, Bae G, Hong BH. Engineering functionalization and properties of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) with controllable synthesis for energy and display applications. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:3347-3378. [PMID: 38288500 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr05842e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Graphene quantum dots (GQDs), a new type of 0D nanomaterial, are composed of a graphene lattice with sp2 bonding carbon core and characterized by their abundant edges and wide surface area. This unique structure imparts excellent electrical properties and exceptional physicochemical adsorption capabilities to GQDs. Additionally, the reduction in dimensionality of graphene leads to an open band gap in GQDs, resulting in their unique optical properties. The functional groups and dopants in GQDs are key factors that allow the modulation of these characteristics. So, controlling the functionalization level of GQDs is crucial for understanding their characteristics and further application. This review provides an overview of the properties and structure of GQDs and summarizes recent developments in research that focus on their controllable synthesis, involving functional groups and doping. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive and focused explanation of how GQDs have been advantageously applied in recent years, particularly in the fields of energy storage devices and displays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeonwoo Cho
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gaeun Bae
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.
| | - Byung Hee Hong
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.
- Graphene Research Center, Advanced Institute of Convergence Technology, Suwon 16229, Republic of Korea
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28
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Yang P, Huang Q, Zhang J, Li Y, Gao H, Gu Z. Natural Polyphenolic Nanodots for Alzheimer's Disease Treatment. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2308393. [PMID: 38010256 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202308393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The abnormal amyloid-β accumulation is essential and obbligato in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis and natural polyphenols exhibit great potential as amyloid aggregation inhibitors. However, the poor metabolic stability, low bioavailability, and weak blood-brain barrier crossing ability of natural polyphenol molecules fail to meet clinical needs. Here, a universal protocol to prepare natural polyphenolic nanodots is developed by heating in aqueous solution without unacceptable additives. The nanodots are able to not only inhibit amyloid-β fibrillization and trigger the fibril disaggregation, but mitigate the amyloid-β-plaque-induced cascade impairments including normalizing oxidative microenvironment, altering microglial polarization, and rescuing neuronal death and synaptic loss, which results in significant improvements in recognition and cognition deficits in transgenic mice. More importantly, natural polyphenolic nanodots possess stronger antiamyloidogenic performance compared with small molecule, as well as penetrate the blood-brain barrier. The excellent biocompatibility further guarantees the potential of natural polyphenolic nanodots for clinical applications. It is expected that natural polyphenolic nanodots provide an attractive paradigm to support the development of the therapeutics for Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Yang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
- Department of Health Products Technical Research and Development Center, Yunnanbaiyao Group Co. Ltd., Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Qianqian Huang
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Yiwen Li
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Huile Gao
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Zhipeng Gu
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
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Boyton I, Valenzuela SM, Collins-Praino LE, Care A. Neuronanomedicine for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease: Current progress and a guide to improve clinical translation. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 115:631-651. [PMID: 37967664 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuronanomedicine is an emerging multidisciplinary field that aims to create innovative nanotechnologies to treat major neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). A key component of neuronanomedicine are nanoparticles, which can improve drug properties and demonstrate enhanced safety and delivery across the blood-brain barrier, a major improvement on existing therapeutic approaches. In this review, we critically analyze the latest nanoparticle-based strategies to modify underlying disease pathology to slow or halt AD/PD progression. We find that a major roadblock for neuronanomedicine translation to date is a poor understanding of how nanoparticles interact with biological systems (i.e., bio-nano interactions), which is partly due to inconsistent reporting in published works. Accordingly, this review makes a set of specific recommendations to help guide researchers to harness the unique properties of nanoparticles and thus realise breakthrough treatments for AD/PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- India Boyton
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Gadigal Country, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Stella M Valenzuela
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Gadigal Country, NSW 2007, Australia
| | | | - Andrew Care
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Gadigal Country, NSW 2007, Australia.
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30
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Abidi SMS, Sharma C, Randhawa S, Shukla AK, Acharya A. A review on nanotechnological perspective of "the amyloid cascade hypothesis" for neurodegenerative diseases. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:126821. [PMID: 37690655 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are characterized by progressive degeneration of neurons which deteriorates the brain functions. An early detection of the onset of NDs is utmost important, as it will provide the fast treatment strategies to prevent further progression of the disease. Conventionally, accurate diagnosis of the brain related disorders is difficult in their early phase. To solve this problem, nanotechnology based neurofunctional imaging and biomarker detection techniques have been developed which allows high specificity and sensitivity towards screening and diagnosis of NDs. Another challenge to treat the brain related disorders is to overcome the complex integrity of blood-brain-barrier (BBB) for the delivery of theranostic agents. Fortunately, utilization of nanomaterials has been pursued as promising strategy to address this challenge. Herein, we critically highlighted the recent improvements in the field of neurodiagnostic and therapeutic approaches involving innovative strategies for diagnosis, and inhibition of protein aggregates. We have provided particular emphasis on the use of nanotechnology which can push forward the blooming research growth in this field to win the battle against devastating NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed M S Abidi
- Biotechnology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, H.P. 176061, India; Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Chandni Sharma
- Biotechnology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, H.P. 176061, India; Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Shiwani Randhawa
- Biotechnology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, H.P. 176061, India; Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Ashish K Shukla
- Biotechnology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, H.P. 176061, India; Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Amitabha Acharya
- Biotechnology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, H.P. 176061, India; Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
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31
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Ostovar S, Pourmadadi M, Zaker MA. Co-biopolymer of chitosan/carboxymethyl cellulose hydrogel improved by zinc oxide and graphene quantum dots nanoparticles as pH-sensitive nanocomposite for quercetin delivery to brain cancer treatment. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127091. [PMID: 37758113 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Brain cancer is the major reason of cancer-relevant deaths every year, as it is the most challenging cancer to treat and drug delivery. Quercetin (QUR), as a flavonoid substance found in plants and fruits, has good anticancer and medicinal effects on brain tumors, but its low stability and bioavailability as well as the blood-brain barrier (BBB), prevent it from reaching brain tumors. This research has introduced a nanocomposite made of biocompatible polymers, chitosan, and carboxymethyl cellulose. This co- biopolymer's mechanical and chemical properties and drug-loading capacity have been improved by adding zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). In addition, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) were used to improve the chemical properties as well as the ability to penetrate the BBB. The CS/CMC/GQDs/ZnO@QUR nanocomposites have nanoneedle structures with an average size of 219.38 ± 5.21 nm and a zeta potential of -53 mV. The morphology, chemical bonds, and crystallinity of the nanocomposite were examined by FE-SEM, FTIR, and XRD analyses, respectively. By examining the release of QUR, it became apparent that the half-drug release takes about 72 h, which has a much more controlled release than other QUR carriers. Further, the MTT test on U-87 MG and L929 cell lines suggested that this nanocomposite has good anticancer properties and low cytotoxicity compared to the free QUR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shima Ostovar
- School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran 11155-4563, Iran
| | - Mehrab Pourmadadi
- School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran 11155-4563, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Amin Zaker
- School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran 11155-4563, Iran
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32
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Das T, Das S, Kumar P, C A B, Mandal D. Coal waste-derived synthesis of yellow oxidized graphene quantum dots with highly specific superoxide dismutase activity: characterization, kinetics, and biological studies. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:17861-17878. [PMID: 37885430 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr04259f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The disintegration of coal-based precursors for the scalable production of nanozymes relies on the fate of solvothermal pyrolysis. Herein, we report a novel economic and scalable strategy to fabricate yellow luminescent graphene quantum dots (YGQDs) by remediating unburnt coal waste (CW). The YGQDs (size: 7-8 nm; M.W: 3157.9 Da) were produced using in situ "anion-radical" assisted bond cleavage in water (within 8 h; at 121 °C) with yields of ∼87%. The presence of exposed surface and edge groups, such as COOH, C-O-C, and O-H, as structural defects accounted for its high fluorescence with εmax ∼530 nm at pH 7. Besides, these defects also acted as radical stabilizers, demonstrating prominent anti-oxidative activity of ∼4.5-fold higher than standard ascorbic acid (AA). In addition, the YGQDs showed high biocompatibility towards mammalian cells, with 500 μM of treatment dose showing <15% cell death. The YGQDs demonstrated specific superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity wherein 15 μM YGQDs equalled the activity of 1-unit biological SOD (bSOD), measured using the pyrogallol assay. The Km for YGQDs was ∼10-fold higher than that for bSOD. However, the YGQDs retained their SOD activity in harsh conditions like high temperatures or denaturing reactions, where the activity of bSOD is completely lost. The binding affinity of YGQDs for superoxide ions, measured from isothermal calorimetry (ITC) studies, was only 10-fold lower than that of bSOD (Kd of 586 nM vs. 57.3 nM). Further, the pre-treatment of YGQDs (∼10-25 μM) increased the cell survivability to >75-90% in three cell lines during ROS-mediated cell death, with the highest survivability being shown for C6-cells. Next, the ROS-induced apoptosis in C6-cells (model for neurodegenerative diseases study), wherein YGQDs uptake was confirmed by confocal microscopy, showed ∼5-fold apoptosis alleviation with only 5 μM pretreatment. The YGQDs also restored the expression of pro-inflammatory Th1 cytokines (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-6) and anti-inflammatory Th2 cytokines (IL-10) to their basal levels, with a net >3-fold change observed. This further explains the molecular mechanism for the antioxidant property of YGQDs. The high specific SOD activity associated with YGQDs may provide the cheapest alternative source for producing large-scale SOD-based nanozymes that can treat various oxidative stress-linked disorders/diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tushar Das
- Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology Patna, Bihar 800005, India.
| | - Subrata Das
- Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology Patna, Bihar 800005, India.
| | - Prakash Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Hajipur, Vaishali 844102, India.
| | - Betty C A
- Chemistry Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400085, India
| | - Debabrata Mandal
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Hajipur, Vaishali 844102, India.
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33
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Liu Z, Sokratian A, Duda AM, Xu E, Stanhope C, Fu A, Strader S, Li H, Yuan Y, Bobay BG, Sipe J, Bai K, Lundgaard I, Liu N, Hernandez B, Bowes Rickman C, Miller SE, West AB. Anionic nanoplastic contaminants promote Parkinson's disease-associated α-synuclein aggregation. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadi8716. [PMID: 37976362 PMCID: PMC10656074 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi8716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have identified increasing levels of nanoplastic pollution in the environment. Here, we find that anionic nanoplastic contaminants potently precipitate the formation and propagation of α-synuclein protein fibrils through a high-affinity interaction with the amphipathic and non-amyloid component (NAC) domains in α-synuclein. Nanoplastics can internalize in neurons through clathrin-dependent endocytosis, causing a mild lysosomal impairment that slows the degradation of aggregated α-synuclein. In mice, nanoplastics combine with α-synuclein fibrils to exacerbate the spread of α-synuclein pathology across interconnected vulnerable brain regions, including the strong induction of α-synuclein inclusions in dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. These results highlight a potential link for further exploration between nanoplastic pollution and α-synuclein aggregation associated with Parkinson's disease and related dementias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyong Liu
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Arpine Sokratian
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Enquan Xu
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Christina Stanhope
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Amber Fu
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Samuel Strader
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Huizhong Li
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Joana Sipe
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Ketty Bai
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Iben Lundgaard
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Belinda Hernandez
- Department of Ophthalmology and Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Sara E. Miller
- Department of Pathology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Andrew B. West
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
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34
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Jahan I, Ahmad A, Deep S. Effect of flavonoids on the destabilization of α-synuclein fibrils and their conversion to amorphous aggregate: A molecular dynamics simulation and experimental study. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2023; 1871:140951. [PMID: 37574034 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2023.140951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
The second most prevalent neurodegenerative disease, Parkinson's disease (PD), is caused by the accumulation and deposition of fibrillar aggregates of the α-Syn into the Lewy bodies. To create a potent pharmacological candidate to destabilize the preformed α-Syn fibril, it is important to understand the precise molecular mechanism underlying the destabilization of the α-Syn fibril. Through molecular dynamics simulations and experiments, we have examined the molecular mechanisms causing the destabilization and suppression of a newly discovered α-Syn fibril with a Greek-key-like shape and an aggregation prone state (APS) of α-Syn in the presence and absence of various Flvs. According to MD simulation and experimental evidence, morin, quercetin, and myricetin are the Flvs, most capable of destabilizing the fibrils and converting them into amorphous aggregates. Compared to galangin and kaempferol, they have more hydroxyl groups and form more hydrogen bonds with fibrils.The processes by which morin and myricetin prevent new fibril production from APS and destabilize the fibrils are different. According to linear interaction energy analysis, van der Waals interaction predominates with morin, and electrostatic interaction dominates with myricetin. Our MD simulation and experimental findings provide mechanistic insights into how Flvs destabilize α-Syn fibrils and change their morphology, opening the door to developing structure-based drugs for treating Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishrat Jahan
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Delhi 110016, India
| | - Aziz Ahmad
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Delhi 110016, India
| | - Shashank Deep
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Delhi 110016, India.
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35
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Paterna A, Santonicola P, Di Prima G, Rao E, Raccosta S, Zampi G, Russo C, Moran O, Manno M, Di Schiavi E, Librizzi F, Carrotta R. α S1-Casein-Loaded Proteo-liposomes as Potential Inhibitors in Amyloid Fibrillogenesis: In Vivo Effects on a C. elegans Model of Alzheimer's Disease. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:3894-3904. [PMID: 37847529 PMCID: PMC10623563 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the amyloid hypothesis, in the early phases of Alzheimer's disease (AD), small soluble prefibrillar aggregates of the amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) interact with neuronal membranes, causing neural impairment. Such highly reactive and toxic species form spontaneously and transiently in the amyloid building pathway. A therapeutic strategy consists of the recruitment of these intermediates, thus preventing aberrant interaction with membrane components (lipids and receptors), which in turn may trigger a cascade of cellular disequilibria. Milk αs1-Casein is an intrinsically disordered protein that is able to inhibit Aβ amyloid aggregation in vitro, by sequestering transient species. In order to test αs1-Casein as an inhibitor for the treatment of AD, it needs to be delivered in the place of action. Here, we demonstrate the use of large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) as suitable nanocarriers for αs1-Casein. Proteo-LUVs were prepared and characterized by different biophysical techniques, such as multiangle light scattering, atomic force imaging, and small-angle X-ray scattering; αs1-Casein loading was quantified by a fluorescence assay. We demonstrated on a C. elegans AD model the effectiveness of the proposed delivery strategy in vivo. Proteo-LUVs allow efficient administration of the protein, exerting a positive functional readout at very low doses while avoiding the intrinsic toxicity of αs1-Casein. Proteo-LUVs of αs1-Casein represent an effective proof of concept for the exploitation of partially disordered proteins as a therapeutic strategy in mild AD conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Paterna
- Institute
of Biophysics, National Research Council, Division of Palermo, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Pamela Santonicola
- Institute
of Biosciences and Bioresources, Division of Napoli, Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Napoli, Italy
- Department
of Medicine and Health Sciences, University
of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Giulia Di Prima
- Department
of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Estella Rao
- Institute
of Biophysics, National Research Council, Division of Palermo, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Samuele Raccosta
- Institute
of Biophysics, National Research Council, Division of Palermo, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Zampi
- Institute
of Biosciences and Bioresources, Division of Napoli, Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Claudio Russo
- Department
of Medicine and Health Sciences, University
of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
- Consorzio
Interuniversitario in Ingegneria e Medicina (COIIM), Via F. De Sanctis, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Oscar Moran
- Institute
of Biophysics, National Research Council, Division of Genova, Via De Marini 6, 16149 Genova, Italy
| | - Mauro Manno
- Institute
of Biophysics, National Research Council, Division of Palermo, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Elia Di Schiavi
- Institute
of Biosciences and Bioresources, Division of Napoli, Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Fabio Librizzi
- Institute
of Biophysics, National Research Council, Division of Palermo, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Rita Carrotta
- Institute
of Biophysics, National Research Council, Division of Palermo, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
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36
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Liu Z, Sokratian A, Duda AM, Xu E, Stanhope C, Fu A, Strader S, Li H, Yuan Y, Bobay BG, Sipe J, Bai K, Lundgaard I, Liu N, Hernandez B, Rickman CB, Miller SE, West AB. Anionic Nanoplastic Contaminants Promote Parkinson's Disease-Associated α-Synuclein Aggregation. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3439102. [PMID: 37886561 PMCID: PMC10602106 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3439102/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have identified increasing levels of nanoplastic pollution in the environment. Here we find that anionic nanoplastic contaminants potently precipitate the formation and propagation of α-synuclein protein fibrils through a high-affinity interaction with the amphipathic and non-amyloid component (NAC) domains in α-synuclein. Nanoplastics can internalize in neurons through clathrin-dependent endocytosis, causing a mild lysosomal impairment that slows the degradation of aggregated α-synuclein. In mice, nanoplastics combine with α-synuclein fibrils to exacerbate the spread of α-synuclein pathology across interconnected vulnerable brain regions, including the strong induction of α-synuclein inclusions in dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. These results highlight a potential link for further exploration between nanoplastic pollution and α-synuclein aggregation associated with Parkinson's disease and related dementias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyong Liu
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Arpine Sokratian
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Enquan Xu
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Christina Stanhope
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Amber Fu
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Samuel Strader
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Huizhong Li
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Joana Sipe
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Ketty Bai
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Iben Lundgaard
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Belinda Hernandez
- Department of Ophthalmology and Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Sara E Miller
- Department of Pathology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Andrew B. West
- Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotheraputics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD
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37
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Zarepour A, Karasu Ç, Mir Y, Nematollahi MH, Iravani S, Zarrabi A. Graphene- and MXene-based materials for neuroscience: diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Biomater Sci 2023; 11:6687-6710. [PMID: 37646462 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm01114c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
MXenes and graphene are two-dimensional materials that have gained increasing attention in neuroscience, particularly in sensing, theranostics, and biomedical engineering. Various composites of graphene and MXenes with fascinating thermal, optical, magnetic, mechanical, and electrical properties have been introduced to develop advanced nanosystems for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, as exemplified in the case of biosensors for neurotransmitter detection. These biosensors display high sensitivity, selectivity, and stability, making them promising tools for neuroscience research. MXenes have been employed to create high-resolution neural interfaces for neuroelectronic devices, develop neuro-receptor-mediated synapse devices, and stimulate the electrophysiological maturation of neural circuits. On the other hand, graphene/derivatives exhibit therapeutic applicability in neuroscience, as exemplified in the case of graphene oxide for targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to the brain. While MXenes and graphene have potential benefits in neuroscience, there are also challenges/limitations associated with their use, such as toxicity, environmental impacts, and limited understanding of their properties. In addition, large-scale production and commercialization as well as optimization of reaction/synthesis conditions and clinical translation studies are very important aspects. Thus, it is important to consider the use of these materials in neuroscience research and conduct further research to obtain an in-depth understanding of their properties and potential applications. By addressing issues related to biocompatibility, long-term stability, targeted delivery, electrical interfaces, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, MXenes and graphene have the potential to greatly advance the field of neuroscience and pave the way for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for neurological disorders. Herein, recent advances in therapeutic and diagnostic applications of graphene- and MXene-based materials in neuroscience are discussed, focusing on important challenges and future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Zarepour
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, 34396 Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Çimen Karasu
- Cellular Stress Response and Signal Transduction Research Laboratory, Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, 06500 Ankara, Turkey
| | - Yousof Mir
- Applied Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Hadi Nematollahi
- Applied Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Siavash Iravani
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, 81746-73461, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, 34396 Istanbul, Turkey.
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38
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Mohebichamkhorami F, Faizi M, Mahmoudifard M, Hajikarim-Hamedani A, Mohseni SS, Heidari A, Ghane Y, Khoramjouy M, Khayati M, Ghasemi R, Zali H, Hosseinzadeh S, Mostafavi E. Microfluidic Synthesis of Ultrasmall Chitosan/Graphene Quantum Dots Particles for Intranasal Delivery in Alzheimer's Disease Treatment. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2207626. [PMID: 37309299 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202207626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Nanoparticles (NPs) based therapies for Alzheimer's disease (AD) attract interest due to their ability to pass across or bypass the blood-brain barrier. Chitosan (CS) NPs or graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are promising drug carriers with excellent physicochemical and electrical properties. The current study proposes the combination of CS and GQDs in ultrasmall NP form not as drug carriers but as theranostic agents for AD. The microfluidic-based synthesis of the CS/GQD NPs with optimized characteristics makes them ideal for transcellular transfer and brain targeting after intranasal (IN) delivery. The NPs have the ability to enter the cytoplasm of C6 glioma cells in vitro and show dose and time-dependent effects on the viability of the cells. IN administration of the NPs to streptozotocin (STZ) induced AD-like models lead to a significant number of entrances of the treated rats to the target arm in the radial arm water maze (RAWM) test. It shows the positive effect of the NPs on the memory recovery of the treated rats. The NPs are detectable in the brain via in vivo bioimaging due to GQDs as diagnostic markers. The noncytotoxic NPs localize in the myelinated axons of hippocampal neurons. They do not affect the clearance of amyloid β (Aβ) plaques at intercellular space. Moreover, they showed no positive impact on the enhancement of MAP2 and NeuN expression as markers of neural regeneration. The memory improvement in treated AD rats may be due to neuroprotection via the anti-inflammation effect and regulation of the brain tissue microenvironment that needs to be studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fariba Mohebichamkhorami
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1968917313, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Faizi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 19919-53381, Iran
| | - Matin Mahmoudifard
- Department of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, 1497716316, Iran
| | | | - Seyedeh Sarvenaz Mohseni
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 19919-53381, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Heidari
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, 1916893813, Iran
| | - Yekta Ghane
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1461884513, Iran
| | - Mona Khoramjouy
- Phytochemistry Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 19919-53381, Iran
| | - Maryam Khayati
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, 45139-56184, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Research Center, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, 45139-56184, Iran
| | - Rasoul Ghasemi
- Neurophysiology research center and Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1985717443, Iran
| | - Hakimeh Zali
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1968917313, Iran
- Medical Nanotechnology and Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1968917313, Iran
| | - Simzar Hosseinzadeh
- Medical Nanotechnology and Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1968917313, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
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Poonkuzhali K, Seenivasagan R, Prabhakaran J, Karthika A. Synthesis and characterization of chemical engineered PLGA nanosphere: Triggering mechanism of Catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibition on in vivo neurodegeneration. Bioorg Chem 2023; 139:106673. [PMID: 37354660 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Chemically engineered PLGA nanospheres are one of the emerging technologies for treating neurodegenerative disorders by inhibiting Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT). PLGA-MATPM nanospheres were chemically synthesized using PLGA and MATPM (N-allyl-N-(3-(m-tolyloxy)propyl) methioninate). The tailored PLGA nanospheres induce dose-dependent COMT inhibition in competitive kinetic mode. The interactions between COMT and PLGA nanosphere are explained by spectroscopic and molecular dynamics analysis. PLGA-MATPM NPs suppressed the growth of neuroblastoma cells due to the neurodegenerative toxicity of MPTP induction, demonstrating its potency as a cure for neurological disorders. PLGA-MATPM NPs cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively than those in the blood. Furthermore, PLGA nanospheres showed the most neurodegenerative recovery against MPTP-induced C57BL/6 mice. Using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), it was validated for quality images of cerebral blood flow (CBF).
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Affiliation(s)
- K Poonkuzhali
- Bioprocess and Microbial Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry - 605 014, India.
| | - R Seenivasagan
- Department of Biotechnology, Arulmigu Kalasalingam College of Arts and Science, Krishnankoil - 626126, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - J Prabhakaran
- Organic Synthesis Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, School of Physical, Chemical and Applied Sciences, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry - 605 014, India
| | - A Karthika
- Department of Microbiology, The Standard Fireworks Rajaratnam College for Women, Sivakasi - 626123, Tamil Nadu, India
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Wang G, Zhu L, Wu X, Qian Z. Influence of Protonation on the Norepinephrine Inhibiting α-Synuclein 71-82 Oligomerization. J Phys Chem B 2023; 127:7848-7857. [PMID: 37683121 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c03270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD) is closely linked to the massive presence of Lewy vesicles and Lewy axons in the cytoplasm of neurons, mainly consisting of α-synuclein (αS). Norepinephrine (NE), whose secretion can be increased by exercise, has been demonstrated to prevent the fibrillation of αS and to break down the mature αS fibrils. In this work, we focus on the influence of protonation on the inhibitory ability of NE by using amyloid core fragment αS71-82 as a template. All-atom replica-exchange molecular dynamics simulations (accumulating to 33.6 μs) in explicit water were performed to explore the inhibitory effect of protonated and nonprotonated NE on αS oligomerization. Our results show that NE/NE+ can lead to a significant decrease in β-sheet content with increasing temperature, while isolated αS maintains relatively higher β-sheet conformations until 363 K, implying that both NE and NE+ can lower the critical temperature required for αS fibril decomposition. NE and NE+ also lead to the formation of less compact αS oligomers by preventing the backbone hydrogen bonds and the side-chain packing. The protonation would affect the binding affinity, interaction modes, and binding intensity of NE with αS. Interesting, NE and NE+ have a distinct binding free energy in the electrostatic and solvation terms, which mostly counter each other and produce a weak binding intensity with αS. Our work contributes to a better understanding of the inhibitory mechanism of NE and NE+ on αS oligomerization relevant to PD pathogenesis, which may provide clues for the design of antiamyloid medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, and School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Lili Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, and School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200438, China
- Shang Xing School, 6 Shangli Road, Shenzhen 518100, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, and School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Zhenyu Qian
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, and School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200438, China
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Yin X, Zhou H, Zhang M, Su J, Wang X, Li S, Yang Z, Kang Z, Zhou R. C 3N nanodots inhibits Aβ peptides aggregation pathogenic path in Alzheimer's disease. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5718. [PMID: 37714837 PMCID: PMC10504243 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41489-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the accumulating evidence linking the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD) to the aggregation of Aβ peptides and the emergence of Aβ oligomers, the FDA has approved very few anti-aggregation-based therapies over the past several decades. Here, we report the discovery of an Aβ peptide aggregation inhibitor: an ultra-small nanodot called C3N. C3N nanodots alleviate aggregation-induced neuron cytotoxicity, rescue neuronal death, and prevent neurite damage in vitro. Importantly, they reduce the global cerebral Aβ peptides levels, particularly in fibrillar amyloid plaques, and restore synaptic loss in AD mice. Consequently, these C3N nanodots significantly ameliorate behavioral deficits of APP/PS1 double transgenic male AD mice. Moreover, analysis of critical tissues (e.g., heart, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney) display no obvious pathological damage, suggesting C3N nanodots are biologically safe. Finally, molecular dynamics simulations also reveal the inhibitory mechanisms of C3N nanodots in Aβ peptides aggregation and its potential application against AD.
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Grants
- the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2021YFA1201201 and 2021YFF1200404), the National MCF Energy R&D Program of China (2018YFE0306105), the National Key R&D Program of China (2020YFA0406104, 2020YFA0406101), the Innovative Research Group Project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (51821002), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (U1967217, 22176137, 51725204, 21771132, 51972216, and 52041202), the National Independent Innovation Demonstration Zone Shanghai Zhangjiang Major Projects (ZJZX2020014), the Natural Science Foundation of the Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions of China (20KJA150010), the Starry Night Science Fund at Shanghai Institute for Advanced Study of Zhejiang University (SN-ZJU-SIAS-003), and BirenTech Research (BR-ZJU-SIAS-001).
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuhua Yin
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, Shanghai Institute for Advanced Study, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-based Functional Materials and Devices, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Hong Zhou
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, Shanghai Institute for Advanced Study, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Mengling Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-based Functional Materials and Devices, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
- Macao Institute of Materials Science and Engineering (MIMSE), MUST-SUDA Joint Research Center for Advanced Functional Materials, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, 999078, Macao, China
| | - Juan Su
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-based Functional Materials and Devices, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Sijie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zaixing Yang
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, Shanghai Institute for Advanced Study, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Zhenhui Kang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-based Functional Materials and Devices, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
- Macao Institute of Materials Science and Engineering (MIMSE), MUST-SUDA Joint Research Center for Advanced Functional Materials, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, 999078, Macao, China.
| | - Ruhong Zhou
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, Shanghai Institute for Advanced Study, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China.
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10027, USA.
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Wang Z, Gonzalez KM, Cordova LE, Lu J. Nanotechnology-empowered therapeutics targeting neurodegenerative diseases. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 15:e1907. [PMID: 37248794 PMCID: PMC10525015 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are posing pressing health issues due to the high prevalence among aging populations in the 21st century. They are evidenced by the progressive loss of neuronal function, often associated with neuronal necrosis and many related devastating complications. Nevertheless, effective therapeutical strategies to treat neurodegenerative diseases remain a tremendous challenge due to the multisystemic nature and limited drug delivery to the central nervous system. As a result, there is a pressing need to develop effective alternative therapeutics to manage the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. By utilizing the functional reconstructive materials and technologies with specific targeting ability at the nanoscale level, nanotechnology-empowered medicines can transform the therapeutic paradigms of neurodegenerative diseases with minimal systemic side effects. This review outlines the current applications and progresses of the nanotechnology-enabled drug delivery systems to enhance the therapeutic efficacy in treating neurodegenerative diseases. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiren Wang
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
| | - Karina Marie Gonzalez
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
| | - Leyla Estrella Cordova
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
| | - Jianqin Lu
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
- BIO5 Institute, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
- Clinical and Translational Oncology Program, The University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
- Southwest Environmental Health Sciences Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, 85721, United States
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43
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Zhu R, Makwana KM, Zhang Y, Rajewski BH, Del Valle JR, Wang Y. Blocking tau transmission by biomimetic graphene nanoparticles. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:7378-7388. [PMID: 37431684 PMCID: PMC10528742 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb00850a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Tauopathies are a class of neurodegenerative diseases resulting in cognitive dysfunction, executive dysfunction, and motor disturbance. The primary pathological feature of tauopathies is the presence of neurofibrillary tangles in the brain composed of tau protein aggregates. Moreover, tau aggregates can spread from neuron to neuron and lead to the propagation of tau pathology. Although numerous small molecules are known to inhibit tau aggregation and block tau cell-to-cell transmission, it is still challenging to use them for therapeutic applications due to poor specificity and low blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration. Graphene nanoparticles were previously demonstrated to penetrate the BBB and are amenable to functionalization for targeted delivery. Moreover, these nanoscale biomimetic particles can self-assemble or assemble with various biomolecules including proteins. In this paper, we show that graphene quantum dots (GQDs), as graphene nanoparticles, block the seeding activity of tau fibrils by inhibiting the fibrillization of monomeric tau and triggering the disaggregation of tau filaments. This behavior is attributed to electrostatic and π-π stacking interactions of GQDs with tau. Overall, our studies indicate that GQDs with biomimetic properties can efficiently inhibit and disassemble pathological tau aggregates, and thus block tau transmission, which supports their future developments as a potential treatment for tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runyao Zhu
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA.
| | - Kamlesh M Makwana
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | - Youwen Zhang
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA.
| | - Benjamin H Rajewski
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | - Juan R Del Valle
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | - Yichun Wang
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA.
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44
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Rodger AT, ALNasser M, Carter WG. Are Therapies That Target α-Synuclein Effective at Halting Parkinson's Disease Progression? A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11022. [PMID: 37446200 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
There are currently no pharmacological treatments available that completely halt or reverse the progression of Parkinson's Disease (PD). Hence, there is an unmet need for neuroprotective therapies. Lewy bodies are a neuropathological hallmark of PD and contain aggregated α-synuclein (α-syn) which is thought to be neurotoxic and therefore a suitable target for therapeutic interventions. To investigate this further, a systematic review was undertaken to evaluate whether anti-α-syn therapies are effective at preventing PD progression in preclinical in vivo models of PD and via current human clinical trials. An electronic literature search was performed using MEDLINE and EMBASE (Ovid), PubMed, the Web of Science Core Collection, and Cochrane databases to collate clinical evidence that investigated the targeting of α-syn. Novel preclinical anti-α-syn therapeutics provided a significant reduction of α-syn aggregations. Biochemical and immunohistochemical analysis of rodent brain tissue demonstrated that treatments reduced α-syn-associated pathology and rescued dopaminergic neuronal loss. Some of the clinical studies did not provide endpoints since they had not yet been completed or were terminated before completion. Completed clinical trials displayed significant tolerability and efficacy at reducing α-syn in patients with PD with minimal adverse effects. Collectively, this review highlights the capacity of anti-α-syn therapies to reduce the accumulation of α-syn in both preclinical and clinical trials. Hence, there is potential and optimism to target α-syn with further clinical trials to restrict dopaminergic neuronal loss and PD progression and/or provide prophylactic protection to avoid the onset of α-syn-induced PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbie T Rodger
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Derby DE22 3DT, UK
| | - Maryam ALNasser
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Derby DE22 3DT, UK
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 400, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wayne G Carter
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Derby DE22 3DT, UK
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Oukhrib M, Tamegart L, Assafi A, Hejji L, Azzouz A, Villarejo LP, Haida M, Mohamed C, Gamrani H. Effects of graphene oxide nanoparticles administration against reserpine-induced neurobehavioral damage and oxidative stress in an animal model of Parkinson's disease. Food Chem Toxicol 2023:113904. [PMID: 37356558 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by the degeneration of substantia nigra dopaminergic neurons. Many therapeutic strategies were explored for PD with no success. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of graphene oxide nanoparticles (GONPs) using the reserpine model of PD. Low concentrations GONPs were utilized as a therapeutic agent in many neurodegenerative diseases. We assessed the neurobehavioral alterations in the reserpine model of PD and investigated the neuroprotective and antioxidant effects of GONPs in this model. Thirty male mice were separated into three groups (N = 10): C (control); Res (Reserpine 0.25 mg/kg); Res + GONPs (Reserpine 0.25 mg/kg and GONPs 25 mg/kg). Our results showed that reserpine neurotoxicity induced hypoactivity with a significant increase of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the brain and brainstem. GONPs reversed the reserpine-induced hypoactivity concomitant with decreased neuronal CAT and MDA levels. These findings support the potential use of GONPs as an antioxidant agent in the central nervous system (CNS) that protects against neurodegeneration in the reserpine PD model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mjid Oukhrib
- Neurosciences, Pharmacology and Environment Team, Laboratory of Clinical, Experimental and Environmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Lahcen Tamegart
- Neurosciences, Pharmacology and Environment Team, Laboratory of Clinical, Experimental and Environmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco; Biology, Health and Ecology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco.
| | - Abdeslam Assafi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Abdelmalek Essaadi, B.P. 2121, M'Hannech II, 93002, Tétouan, Morocco
| | - Lamia Hejji
- Department of Chemical, Environmental, and Materials Engineering, Higher Polytechnic School of Linares, University of Jaén, Campus Científico-Tecnológico, Cinturón Sur s/n, 23700, Linares (Jaén), Spain
| | - Abdelmonaim Azzouz
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Abdelmalek Essaadi, B.P. 2121, M'Hannech II, 93002, Tétouan, Morocco.
| | - Luis Pérez Villarejo
- Department of Chemical, Environmental, and Materials Engineering, Higher Polytechnic School of Linares, University of Jaén, Campus Científico-Tecnológico, Cinturón Sur s/n, 23700, Linares (Jaén), Spain
| | - Mohammed Haida
- Water, Biodiversity, and Climate Change Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Chraa Mohamed
- Neurosciences, Pharmacology and Environment Team, Laboratory of Clinical, Experimental and Environmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Halima Gamrani
- Neurosciences, Pharmacology and Environment Team, Laboratory of Clinical, Experimental and Environmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco.
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Wang Y, Xu J, Huang F, Yan J, Fan X, Zou Y, Wang C, Ding F, Sun Y. SEVI Inhibits Aβ Amyloid Aggregation by Capping the β-Sheet Elongation Edges. J Chem Inf Model 2023; 63:3567-3578. [PMID: 37246935 PMCID: PMC10363411 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.3c00414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Inhibiting the aggregation of amyloid peptides with endogenous peptides has broad interest due to their intrinsically high biocompatibility and low immunogenicity. Here, we investigated the inhibition mechanism of the prostatic acidic phosphatase fragment SEVI (semen-derived enhancer of viral infection) against Aβ42 fibrillization using atomistic discrete molecular dynamic simulations. Our result revealed that SEVI was intrinsically disordered with dynamic formation of residual helices. With a high positive net charge, the self-aggregation tendency of SEVI was weak. Aβ42 had a strong aggregation propensity by readily self-assembling into β-sheet-rich aggregates. SEVI preferred to interact with Aβ42, rather than SEVI themselves. In the heteroaggregates, Aβ42 mainly adopted β-sheets buried inside and capped by SEVI in the outer layer. SEVI could bind to various Aβ aggregation species─including monomers, dimers, and proto-fibrils─by capping the exposed β-sheet elongation edges. The aggregation processes Aβ42 from the formation of oligomers to conformational nucleation into fibrils and fibril growth should be inhibited as their β-sheet elongation edges are being occupied by the highly charged SEVI. Overall, our computational study uncovered the molecular mechanism of experimentally observed inhibition of SEVI against Aβ42 aggregation, providing novel insights into the development of therapeutic strategies against Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
- Ningbo Institute of Innovation for Combined Medicine and Engineering (NIIME), Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Jia Xu
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Fengjuan Huang
- Ningbo Institute of Innovation for Combined Medicine and Engineering (NIIME), Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Jiajia Yan
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Xinjie Fan
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Yu Zou
- Department of Sport and Exercise Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Chuang Wang
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Feng Ding
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, United States
| | - Yunxiang Sun
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
- Ningbo Institute of Innovation for Combined Medicine and Engineering (NIIME), Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo 315211, China
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, United States
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Vaquero-Rodríguez A, Razquin J, Zubelzu M, Bidgood R, Bengoetxea H, Miguelez C, Morera-Herreras T, Ruiz-Ortega JA, Lafuente JV, Ortuzar N. Efficacy of invasive and non-invasive methods for the treatment of Parkinson's disease: Nanodelivery and enriched environment. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 172:103-143. [PMID: 37833010 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder characterised by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and the subsequent motor disability. The most frequently used treatments in clinics, such as L-DOPA, restore dopaminergic neurotransmission in the brain. However, these treatments are only symptomatic, have temporary efficacy, and produce side effects. Part of the side effects are related to the route of administration as the consumption of oral tablets leads to unspecific pulsatile activation of dopaminergic receptors. For this reason, it is necessary to not only find alternative treatments, but also to develop new administration systems with better security profiles. Nanoparticle delivery systems are new administration forms designed to reach the pharmacological target in a highly specific way, leading to better drug bioavailability, efficacy and safety. Some of these delivery systems have shown promising results in animal models of PD not only when dopaminergic drugs are administered, but even more when neurotrophic factors are released. These latter compounds promote maturation and survival of dopaminergic neurons and can be exogenously administered in the form of pharmacological therapy or endogenously generated by non-pharmacological methods. In this sense, experimental exposure to enriched environments, a non-invasive strategy based on the combination of social and inanimate stimuli, enhances the production of neurotrophic factors and produces a neuroprotective effect in parkinsonian animals. In this review, we will discuss new nanodelivery systems in PD with a special focus on therapies that increase the release of neurotrophic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Vaquero-Rodríguez
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain; Neurodegenerative diseases Group, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Jone Razquin
- Neurodegenerative diseases Group, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain
| | - Maider Zubelzu
- Neurodegenerative diseases Group, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain
| | - Raphaelle Bidgood
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain
| | - Harkaitz Bengoetxea
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain; Neurodegenerative diseases Group, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Cristina Miguelez
- Neurodegenerative diseases Group, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain
| | - Teresa Morera-Herreras
- Neurodegenerative diseases Group, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain
| | - Jose Angel Ruiz-Ortega
- Neurodegenerative diseases Group, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria, Spain
| | - José Vicente Lafuente
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain; Neurodegenerative diseases Group, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Naiara Ortuzar
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain; Neurodegenerative diseases Group, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain.
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Walton-Raaby M, Woods R, Kalyaanamoorthy S. Investigating the Theranostic Potential of Graphene Quantum Dots in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119476. [PMID: 37298426 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with no definitive diagnosis or known cure. The aggregation of Tau protein into neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), which contain straight filaments (SFs) and paired helical filaments (PHFs), is a major hallmark of AD. Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are a type of nanomaterial that combat many of the small-molecule therapeutic challenges in AD and have shown promise in similar pathologies. In this study, two sizes of GQDs, GQD7 and GQD28, were docked to various forms of Tau monomers, SFs, and PHFs. From the favorable docked poses, we simulated each system for at least 300 ns and calculated the free energies of binding. We observed a clear preference for GQD28 in the PHF6 (306VQIVYK311) pathological hexapeptide region of monomeric Tau, while GQD7 targeted both the PHF6 and PHF6* (275VQIINK280) pathological hexapeptide regions. In SFs, GQD28 had a high affinity for a binding site that is available in AD but not in other common tauopathies, while GQD7 behaved promiscuously. In PHFs, GQD28 interacted strongly near the protofibril interface at the putative disaggregation site for epigallocatechin-3-gallate, and GQD7 largely interacted with PHF6. Our analyses revealed several key GQD binding sites that may be used for detecting, preventing, and disassembling the Tau aggregates in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Walton-Raaby
- Department of Chemistry, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Riley Woods
- Department of Chemistry, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
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Wu D, Chen Q, Chen X, Han F, Chen Z, Wang Y. The blood-brain barrier: structure, regulation, and drug delivery. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:217. [PMID: 37231000 PMCID: PMC10212980 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01481-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 181.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a natural protective membrane that prevents central nervous system (CNS) from toxins and pathogens in blood. However, the presence of BBB complicates the pharmacotherapy for CNS disorders as the most chemical drugs and biopharmaceuticals have been impeded to enter the brain. Insufficient drug delivery into the brain leads to low therapeutic efficacy as well as aggravated side effects due to the accumulation in other organs and tissues. Recent breakthrough in materials science and nanotechnology provides a library of advanced materials with customized structure and property serving as a powerful toolkit for targeted drug delivery. In-depth research in the field of anatomical and pathological study on brain and BBB further facilitates the development of brain-targeted strategies for enhanced BBB crossing. In this review, the physiological structure and different cells contributing to this barrier are summarized. Various emerging strategies for permeability regulation and BBB crossing including passive transcytosis, intranasal administration, ligands conjugation, membrane coating, stimuli-triggered BBB disruption, and other strategies to overcome BBB obstacle are highlighted. Versatile drug delivery systems ranging from organic, inorganic, and biologics-derived materials with their synthesis procedures and unique physio-chemical properties are summarized and analyzed. This review aims to provide an up-to-date and comprehensive guideline for researchers in diverse fields, offering perspectives on further development of brain-targeted drug delivery system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 310053, Hangzhou, China.
- Zhejiang Rehabilitation Medical Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 310053, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Qi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 310053, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojie Chen
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 310053, Hangzhou, China
| | - Feng Han
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular & Cerebrovascular Medicine, Drug Target and Drug Discovery Center, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 310053, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Yi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 310053, Hangzhou, China.
- Zhejiang Rehabilitation Medical Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 310053, Hangzhou, China.
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Kuo YC, De S. Development of carbon dots to manage Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. J Taiwan Inst Chem Eng 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtice.2023.104799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
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