INST Mohali Scientists Develop Nanoparticle Pathway for Alzheimer’s Therapy

Researchers at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, have identified a novel nanoparticle-based therapeutic pathway that could significantly advance the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. The Ministry of Science and Technology said the approach addresses multiple disease mechanisms simultaneously, overcoming limitations of conventional therapies that typically target only a single pathological feature.

Limitations of Existing Alzheimer’s Treatments

Alzheimer’s disease therapies have largely focused on individual factors such as amyloid beta aggregation or oxidative stress, often producing limited clinical outcomes. The INST-led research introduces a multi-target strategy designed to alter disease progression itself, rather than offering only symptomatic relief. According to the researchers, the new approach has the potential to slow disease progression, improve memory, and support cognitive functions.

Nanoparticle-Based Multi-Target Strategy

The therapy is built around specially engineered EGCG-dopamine-tryptophan nanoparticles, known as EDTNPs. These nanoparticles integrate epigallocatechin-3-gallate, a polyphenol antioxidant found in green tea, dopamine, a neurotransmitter essential for brain function, and tryptophan, an amino acid involved in cellular processes. This combination enables simultaneous targeting of amyloid aggregation, oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuronal degeneration, which are four major hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.

Role of BDNF and Dual-Action Platform

The research team further enhanced the therapeutic effect by incorporating Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor onto the nanoparticles, creating B-EDTNPs. BDNF is critical for neuronal survival, growth, and regeneration. According to lead researcher Dr Jiban Jyoti Panda, this dual-action nanoplatform not only clears neurotoxic amyloid beta protein clumps but also promotes neuronal repair and regeneration, a rare combination in Alzheimer’s therapeutics.

What to Note for Exams?

• The research was conducted by INST Mohali under the Department of Science and Technology.
• EDTNPs combine EGCG, dopamine and tryptophan in a single nanoparticle.
• BDNF enhances neuronal growth and regeneration.
• The findings were published in the journal Small.

Experimental Results and Future Potential

Laboratory studies and mouse models showed that the nanoparticles disassembled toxic amyloid plaques, reduced brain inflammation, restored cellular balance and improved memory and learning. Computational simulations confirmed their ability to bind and disrupt amyloid beta fibrils at the molecular level. The researchers said this multi-level therapeutic approach could pave the way for more effective Alzheimer’s treatments that address both neurodegeneration and cognitive decline.