Recent advancements in nanotechnology have paved the way for a promising therapeutic solution for Parkinson's disease (PD). Researchers from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, have demonstrated that a nano-formulation of melatonin, the neurohormone known as the "darkness hormone," exhibits enhanced antioxidative and neuroprotective properties. This breakthrough could address the current limitations of PD treatments, which are primarily symptom management tools and not curative.
What of Parkinson's Disease
PD, a prevalent neurological disorder, is characterised by the death of dopamine-producing neurons due to synuclein protein aggregation. While current medications can alleviate symptoms, they cannot reverse or halt disease progression, necessitating innovative therapeutic strategies.
Melatonin as a Neurotherapeutic Agent
Melatonin, secreted by the pineal gland, regulates sleep-wake cycles and has shown potential in inducing "mitophagy"—a quality control mechanism that removes damaged mitochondria to mitigate oxidative stress. However, melatonin's therapeutic application has been constrained by challenges like low bioavailability and limited brain delivery.
Nano-Formulation for Enhanced Delivery
Dr. Surajit Karmakar and his team at INST addressed these challenges by developing a nano-formulation using human serum albumin (HSA) as a biocompatible nanocarrier. This innovation ensures sustained release and targeted delivery of melatonin to the brain, significantly enhancing its therapeutic efficacy, reported by PIB.
Key Findings
Molecular Mechanism and Therapeutic Implications
The research, published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, underscores the molecular dynamics of melatonin-mediated mitophagy regulation. The upregulation of BMI1, a component of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 1, was identified as a key driver in reducing oxidative stress and protecting neurons from degeneration.
Beyond Parkinson's, this breakthrough opens doors for treating other diseases associated with dysregulated mitophagy. Continued exploration could establish nano-melatonin as a safer, more effective neurotherapeutic drug, improving patient outcomes across a spectrum of conditions.
This advancement highlights the potential of combining nanotechnology with neurotherapeutics, offering renewed hope for patients with Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.
(Inputs are taken from PIB)
