Polymeric-Based Theranostic Nanocarriers of Neuroprotective Drugs: Development, Imaging, and Bioanalysis

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Ineffective delivery of neuroprotective drugs to target sites hinders treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.
• Development of advanced drug delivery systems is crucial for enhancing therapeutic efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create novel polymeric-based theranostic nanocarriers for targeted delivery of neuroprotective drugs.
• To evaluate the physicochemical properties, safety, and blood-brain barrier penetration of these nanocarriers.

Main Methods:

• Polymeric theranostic nanocarriers encapsulating Cyclosporin A (CsA) and Tacrolimus (FK506) were prepared using self-emulsification solvent evaporation (SESE) and layer-by-layer techniques.
• Gadolinium (Gd) and rhodamine (ROD) labeled poly-l-lysine (PLL) were incorporated for magnetic resonance and optical imaging, respectively.
• Nanocarrier characterization included size, encapsulation efficiency, cell safety (neuroblastoma, neuronal cultures, endothelial cells), and artificial blood-brain barrier traversal.

Main Results:

• Developed nanocarriers exhibited sizes below 250 nm with approximately 100% encapsulation efficiency.
• Nanocarriers successfully co-delivered therapeutic agents (CsA, FK506) and imaging compounds (Gd, ROD).
• The nanocarriers demonstrated safety in tested human neuroblastoma cells, primary neuronal cultures, and brain microvascular endothelial cells, and effectively crossed an artificial blood-brain barrier.

Conclusions:

• Newly designed polymeric theranostic nanocarriers possess favorable physicochemical and biological properties.
• These nanocarriers can serve as effective transport devices for neuroprotective drugs and imaging agents.
• The developed platform holds significant potential for advancing the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders through improved drug delivery.