Gold Nanoparticles in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have shown promise in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases due to their unique properties and potential mechanisms of action. Here are some key points regarding AuNPs and their applications in neurodegenerative diseases:
Alzheimer's Disease (AD): AuNPs can encapsulate therapeutic molecules and enhance drug transport through the blood-brain barrier (BBB). They have antioxidant effects and can inhibit amyloid-β (Aβ) fibrillation, which is linked to AD. AuNPs have been shown to prevent neuroinflammation, preserve mitochondrial function, and restore antioxidant status, thereby improving cognitive impairment in AD models.
Parkinson's Disease (PD): AuNPs exhibit neuroprotective effects in both in vitro and in vivo PD models. They can inhibit apoptosis in dopaminergic neurons and prevent α-synuclein fibrillation, which is associated with PD. AuNPs also improve behavioral symptoms and reverse dopaminergic neuron loss in mouse models of PD.
Ischemic Stroke: AuNPs may be administered in the acute phase of a stroke to mitigate neuronal damage and promote neuroregeneration. They can be used to enhance drug delivery and improve neuroprotective effects.
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties: AuNPs possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help mitigate neurodegeneration. They can scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduce the expression of inflammatory proteins such as NF-kB, iNOS, and apoptotic protein caspase-3.
Neuroprotection in Ischemic Brain Injury: AuNPs have been shown to reduce brain infarct volume, increase neurotrophic factor levels, and improve neuronal survival in models of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO).
Mitigation of Neuroinflammation: AuNPs can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in human neural stem cells exposed to Aβ, as demonstrated in 3D cell culture models.
Behavioral Improvements: In Morris water maze tests, AuNPs have been shown to enhance memory retention in rats exposed to Aβ, indicating potential cognitive benefits.
Size and Surface Modifications: The effectiveness of AuNPs can be influenced by their size, surface modifications, and functionalisation. These factors can affect their therapeutic and toxic properties.
Further Research Needed: Despite the promising results, more research is needed to fully understand the roles of AuNPs in neurodegenerative diseases and to develop comprehensive strategies for their use in diagnosis and treatment.
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