Dual-Action Cellular Nanoparticles for Effective Lead (Pb²⁺) Detoxification

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Lead (Pb²⁺) exposure is a significant public health issue due to its pervasive presence and severe toxicity.
• Existing treatments for lead poisoning have limitations in efficacy and targeted delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate novel dual-action, neuron-mimetic cell membrane-coated nanoparticles (CNPs) for effective lead (Pb²⁺) detoxification.
• To assess the therapeutic potential of these nanoparticles in both in vitro and in vivo models of lead poisoning.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of CNPs encapsulating DNA aptamers within metal-organic framework (MOF) cores, coated with SH-SY5Y cell membranes.
• In vitro evaluation of Pb²⁺ binding capacity, colloidal stability, and neutralization of Pb²⁺-induced toxicity, oxidative stress, and lipid peroxidation in SH-SY5Y cells.
• In vivo assessment of therapeutic efficacy in a mouse model of lead poisoning, including survival rates, organ damage, and behavioral recovery, alongside toxicity studies.

Main Results:

• The developed Neuron-MOF/aptamer-NPs demonstrated strong Pb²⁺ binding, stability, and resistance to DNA leakage.
• In vitro studies showed potent dual-action neutralization of Pb²⁺ toxicity, oxidative stress, and lipid peroxidation.
• In vivo studies revealed improved survival, reduced organ damage, and restored cognitive and motor functions in lead-poisoned mice, with no observed acute toxicity.

Conclusions:

• Neuron-MOF/aptamer-NPs represent a potent and biocompatible therapeutic platform for targeted lead detoxification.
• The developed nanoparticles offer significant systemic and neuroprotective benefits for treating lead poisoning.
• This approach holds promise for advancing therapeutic strategies against heavy metal toxicity.