Application of Nanoparticles (NPs) for Targeted Therapy of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an incapacitating neurodegenerative condition characterized by the aggregation of pathogenic tau proteins, resulting in cognitive deterioration and amnesia. Existing pharmacological interventions endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) address the management of symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), failing to impede the advancement of pathological conditions1. This underscores the need for the development of novel therapeutic approaches that not only exhibit enhanced efficacy, but also possess the potential to achieve a complete cure. The remainder of this paper will focus on the research surrounding the development of the novel proteotoxic-tau targeting therapeutics. In recent years, a growing body of evidence has suggested that experimental drugs and intervention systems have significant potential for therapeutic applications. Nevertheless, the broad implementation of these novel approaches is impeded by certain inherent limitations, namely their modest toxicological profile and restricted ability to traverse the blood-brain barrier (BBB)97. In response to these obstacles, the utilization of nanoparticles (NPs) in targeted drug delivery systems has emerged as a highly encouraging and viable strategy.
Nanoparticles present a multitude of advantageous attributes, including heightened drug effectiveness, enhanced compatibility with biological systems, elevated availability within the biological milieu, and precise administration to specific cerebral regions affected by Alzheimer’s disease98. Successful blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration and subsequent controlled drug release, along with the attainment of higher drug concentrations at Alzheimer’s disease (AD) sites, can be facilitated through the process of functionalizing ligands onto the surfaces of nanoparticles (NPs). This comprehensive review provides an overview of diverse categories of nanoparticles (NPs), including polymeric NPs, liposomes, metallic NPs, magnetic NPs, silica NPs, and carbon NPs. The primary focus of this review is to elucidate the applications of these NPs in the investigation and targeted intervention of pathogenic tau in Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
The utilization of nanoparticle (NP) technology in the context of targeted therapy for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) exhibits considerable potential and may constitute a paradigm shift in the pursuit of curative interventions. Nevertheless, it is imperative to conduct additional research and clinical trials to ascertain the safety and effectiveness of interventions based on nanotechnology particles (NPs) prior to their extensive use in the management of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Ongoing progress in the field of nanotechnology presents an auspicious opportunity to fundamentally transform the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and enhance the quality of life for the substantial population afflicted by this incapacitating condition.