Poly(N-acryloyl L-tryptophan) nanoparticles: anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects

Neuroinflammation is an immune response, which refers to the inflammation inside the nervous system, which involves complex processes and mechanisms that affect the brain and spinal cord. Viruses, bacteria, injuries, or autoimmune processes cause neuroinflammation, which can lead to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Although there are reports on the development of neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory drugs or medicines that may cross the blood-brain barrier, the results are not satisfactory and demand a suitable solution. In this line, the present work is focused on developing poly(N-acryloyl-L-tryptophan) nanoparticles [poly(L-Tryp) NPs)] and evaluating their potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective roles. Poly(L-Tryp) NPs were characterized by their chemical, physical and optical properties; their cell viability and anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects were evaluated in both cell-based in vitro and in vivo mouse models. Cell based studies were performed with immune RAW 264.7 macrophages and neuronal SH-SY5Y cells. Results show that poly(L-Tryp) NPs are anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective in nature and suppress NF-κB activation, reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion (TNF-α and IL-6), inhibit NO and ROS generation, and restore antioxidant defences (GSH and SOD). Furthermore, these NPs could be paramount for neuronal survival, which positions them as a transformative therapeutic platform for the central nervous system (CNS).