Scientists have discovered that a nano-formulation of melatonin, the hormone produced by the brain in response to darkness, exhibits improved antioxidative and neuroprotective properties, positioning it as a potential therapeutic solution for Parkinson’s Disease (PD).
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease is one of the most prevalent neurological disorders, caused by the death of dopamine-secreting neurons due to the aggregation of alpha-synuclein protein in the brain. While current medications can alleviate symptoms, they fail to cure the disease, highlighting the urgent need for more effective therapeutic strategies.
Melatonin’s Role in Neuroprotection
Melatonin, a hormone secreted by the pineal gland, regulates the sleep-wake cycle and has been widely used to treat insomnia. Recent studies have shown its potential in mitophagy induction—a process that eliminates dysfunctional mitochondria to reduce oxidative stress, a major factor in Parkinson’s progression.
Despite its potential, melatonin faces challenges such as low bioavailability, premature oxidation, and limited brain delivery.
Breakthrough by INST Mohali Researchers
A team of scientists from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, led by Dr. Surajit Karmakar, has successfully developed a nano-formulation of melatonin using human serum albumin (HSA) as a nanocarrier.
This innovative nano-delivery system enables sustained release and targeted brain delivery of melatonin, significantly improving its therapeutic efficacy.
Key Findings of the Study
- Improved Bioavailability: Nano-formulated melatonin demonstrated sustained release, enhancing its effectiveness.
- Enhanced Mitophagy: The formulation improved the brain’s ability to clear dysfunctional mitochondria and promote mitochondrial biogenesis.
- Reduced Oxidative Stress: By inducing mitophagy through BMI1 upregulation, nano-melatonin reduced oxidative damage.
- Neuroprotection: In vitro studies confirmed that nano-melatonin protected dopaminergic (TH-positive) neurons from pesticide-induced toxicity.
The Role of BMI1 in Mitophagy Regulation
The study revealed, for the first time, that BMI1, a protein linked to epigenetic regulation, was overexpressed following nano-melatonin treatment. This upregulation played a crucial role in inducing mitophagy and mitigating oxidative stress, thereby protecting neurons from degeneration.
Future Prospects
The findings, published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, pave the way for melatonin to be considered a safe and effective therapeutic candidate for Parkinson’s Disease. Moreover, this breakthrough offers hope for addressing other diseases where dysregulated mitophagy contributes to pathological outcomes.
Conclusion
The nano-formulation of melatonin stands out as a groundbreaking therapeutic approach for Parkinson’s Disease, combining advanced drug delivery systems with the natural neuroprotective properties of melatonin. Continued research could solidify its position as a safer and more effective treatment option, potentially transforming the lives of millions affected by neurodegenerative disorders.
The study underscores the potential of nanotechnology in revolutionizing treatments for complex neurological diseases like Parkinson’s.
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