Nanoparticle-Based Therapy Shows Promise in Treating Alzheimer's Disease

A new nanoparticle-based therapy developed by Indian researchers could pave the way for a more comprehensive and effective treatment for Alzheimer’s disease by targeting multiple pathological mechanisms simultaneously, according to a study released on Tuesday. Researchers at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali — an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) — have developed a multifunctional nanoplatform that integrates an antioxidant found in green tea, a neurotransmitter and an amino acid to slow disease progression, improve memory and support functions. Alzheimer’s disease is an increasing global health challenge, particularly as ageing populations place greater pressure on healthcare systems. Existing therapies typically focus on a single pathological feature such as amyloid plaque formation or oxidative stress, which has limited their clinical success. The researchers noted that Alzheimer’s is a multifactorial disease and therefore requires a treatment approach capable of addressing several disease pathways at once. The new therapy combines epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a polyphenol with antioxidant properties found in green tea, dopamine — a neurotransmitter associated with mood and cognition — and tryptophan, an essential amino acid, into nanoparticles known as EGCG-dopamine-tryptophan nanoparticles (EDTNPs). These nanoparticles are designed to simultaneously target amyloid aggregation, oxidative stress, inflammation and neuronal degeneration — four major hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease. To further enhance the therapeutic effect, the team incorporated Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a protein vital for neuron survival and growth, onto the nanoparticles, creating BDNF-functionalised EDTNPs. This dual-action system not only helps clear neurotoxic amyloid-beta protein aggregates but also promotes neuronal regeneration, a combination rarely achieved in Alzheimer’s therapies. The research was led by Dr Jiban Jyoti Panda and his team at INST, Mohali, with contributions from Dr Ashok Kumar Datusalia of NIPER Raebareli and Dr Nisha Singh of Gujarat Biotechnology University. The nanoparticles were synthesised using biocompatible techniques such as pressure-assisted hydrothermal methods and electrostatic co-incubation. Laboratory studies and experiments on mouse models showed that the nanoparticles were able to break down toxic protein plaques, reduce inflammation, restore cellular balance in the brain, and improve memory and learning. Computer-based simulations further confirmed that the nanoparticles could bind to and dismantle harmful amyloid-beta fibrils at the molecular level. The findings, published in the scientific journal ‘Small’, suggest that this multi-targeted nanotherapy could offer a more effective and personalised treatment option for Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers believe the approach has the potential to improve patient quality of life, reduce caregiver burden and open new avenues for advanced therapies for neurodegenerative disorders.