Invention Summary:
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by progressive neurodegeneration and a high mortality rate in the elderly. Current therapeutic strategies fall short in halting the underlying cognitive decline and nerve cell damage. The primary features of AD are the accumulation of extracellular amyloid plaques, uncontrolled activation of microglial cells, and neuroinflammation. The recent FDA-approved anti-Aβ antibody drug, Lecanemab, shows promise but its effectiveness for individuals at risk or in late-stage AD is still under investigation.
Researchers from Rutgers University and UC Riverside are developing a novel nanotherapeutic technology that aims to fill this gap by simultaneously targeting multiple aspects of this disease. These amphiphilic macromolecule-based nanoparticles (AM-NPs) have been shown to slow down the formation of Aβ fibrils and even reduce existing fibril burdens. These AM-NPs can also promote neuroprotection and lysosomal Aβ clearance in cultured microglia cells. This comprehensive strategy offers a potential solution to the multifactorial nature of AD.
Market Applications:
- Treatment for AD
- Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems
Advantages:
- Targeting multiple aspects of AD pathology
- Precise scavenger receptor targeting
- Unique nanoparticle properties for drug delivery for neurological and other disorders
Publications:
Gebril, HM. et al. Nanotechnology for microglial targeting and inhibition of neuroinflammation underlying Alzheimer’s pathology. Transl Neurodegener 13, 2(2024). https://translationalneurodegeneration.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40035-023-00393-7
Intellectual Property & Development Status: Patent pending. Available for licensing and/or research collaboration. For any business development and other collaborative partnerships contact: marketingbd@research.rutgers.edu
