Beyond chemotherapy: Exploring tree turmeric root and nano-hydroxyapatite for neuroprotective applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Neuropharmacology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a debilitating side effect of cancer treatment.
• Current treatments for CIPN are limited and often associated with significant side effects.
• Novel therapeutic strategies are urgently needed to manage and prevent CIPN.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize novel tree turmeric root and nano-hydroxyapatite (TRE@NHA) composites.
• To evaluate the in vitro efficacy of TRE@NHA composites in mitigating neuroinflammation and oxidative stress.
• To investigate the in vivo therapeutic potential of TRE@NHA composites in a rat model of CIPN.

Main Methods:

• TRE@NHA composites were synthesized and characterized using FTIR, XRD, TGA, and HRTEM.
• In vitro studies utilized PC12 cells to assess cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory effects, and neuroprotective properties.
• An in vivo rat model of CIPN was induced using paclitaxel (PTX), followed by behavioral, histopathological, and oxidative stress marker assessments.

Main Results:

• TRE@NHA composites exhibited successful integration of tree turmeric root (TRE) into the nano-hydroxyapatite (NHA) matrix.
• In vitro, TRE@NHA-2 demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, suppressing cytokine production and enhancing cell viability.
• In vivo, TRE@NHA-2 effectively alleviated paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain, reduced neuronal damage, and exhibited potent antioxidant properties in sciatic nerve tissues.

Conclusions:

• Novel TRE@NHA composites were successfully developed and characterized.
• TRE@NHA-2 exhibits significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.
• TRE@NHA-2 shows promising therapeutic potential for mitigating chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.