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.
Researchers at Rutgers University are developing a novel nanoparticle platform based on amphiphilic macromolecules to address the multifactorial pathology of Alzheimer’s disease. These nanoparticles inhibit Aβ fibrillization, promote lysosomal Aβ clearance, and modulate microglial-driven neuroinflammation in vitro and in vivo. In vitro studies further demonstrate efficient transcytosis of nanoparticles across the blood–brain barrier while preserving endothelial integrity, supporting their potential for systemic CNS delivery. This multi-target nanotherapeutic approach offers a differentiated strategy for treating neurodegenerative disorders.
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
