Mitochondria-targeting Bimetallic Cluster Nanozymes Alleviate Neuropathic Pain Through Scavenging ROS and Reducing...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Pain Management

Background:

• Neuropathic pain is a major health issue driven by inflammation and reactive oxygen species (ROS).
• Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a key role in the development and persistence of neuropathic pain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a mitochondria-targeted nanozyme (TPP-Au-Ru) for treating neuropathic pain.
• To investigate the nanozyme's ability to scavenge ROS, attenuate inflammatory mediators, and protect mitochondrial function.

Main Methods:

• Mitochondria-targeted bimetallic cluster nanozyme (TPP-Au-Ru) synthesized and characterized.
• In vitro and in vivo studies conducted to assess ROS scavenging and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Evaluation of nanozyme's impact on MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways and mitochondrial function.
• Assessment of therapeutic efficacy and biological toxicity in neuropathic pain models.

Main Results:

• TPP-Au-Ru nanozyme demonstrated high affinity for the mitochondrial matrix.
• Effective scavenging of ROS and attenuation of inflammatory mediators observed in vitro and in vivo.
• Inhibition of MAPK and NF-κB signaling cascades and protection of mitochondrial function confirmed.
• Therapeutic doses alleviated neuropathic pain symptoms for up to 36 hours with low toxicity.

Conclusions:

• Sustained mitochondrial delivery of TPP-Au-Ru nanozyme is an effective and long-lasting strategy for neuropathic pain management.
• This nanozyme offers a promising therapeutic approach with potential to revolutionize pain treatment.
• The study highlights the potential of targeted nanozymes in addressing complex pain conditions.