Brain-targeted nanosystems for neuroinflammatory psychiatric disorders

Overview

This research program develops innovative brain-targeted nanosystems designed to inhibit neuroinflammatory processes at specific temporal windows during disease progression. By selectively delivering anti-inflammatory agents to the central nervous system, these platforms aim to restore neuronal function and reverse or mitigate motor and emotional-cognitive deficits associated with Parkinson's Disease (PD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and Multiple Sclerosis (experimental autoimmune Encephalomyelitis-EAE).

The core value proposition lies in addressing neuroinflammation—a key driver of neuronal dysfunction—through advanced drug delivery technologies that improve targeting, bioavailability, and therapeutic outcomes. Potential applications include pharmaceutical development for neurodegenerative diseases, traumatic injury recovery, and autoimmune neurological conditions.

Technical specifications

Key therapeutic platforms:

• Triamcinolone Acetonide Nanocrystals for intranasal administration, enabling nose-to-brain delivery that bypasses the blood-brain barrier
• IGF1 and TGFβ gene therapy using magnetofected Adenoviral vectors administered via cisterna magna, magnetically directed to specific brain regions
• Micellar systems based on poloxamer 407 and monoterpenes for oral or intravenous administration
• Loperamide-loaded polymeric nanoparticles for systemic delivery targeting neuroinflammatory pathways

Validated findings across animal models:

• In TBI models: Early gene therapy and triamcinolone-loaded lipidic nanocapsules reduced oxidative stress biomarkers (AOPP and MDA) in the prefrontal cortex, motor cortex, and hippocampus, preventing cognitive deficits
• In PD models: IGF1 and TGFβ gene therapy improved cognitive functions, restored TH protein levels, and modulated glial cell parameters
• In EAE models: Neuroinflammatory mechanisms and motor sequelae have been characterized across disease stages, enabling stage-specific treatment strategies

Technology readiness level

The research has progressed through preclinical validation in established animal models. Key biomarkers, behavioral outcomes, and electrophysiological parameters have been characterized across PD, TBI, and EAE models. Future validation efforts will further characterize neuroinflammatory profiles and implement pharmacological treatments to reduce behavioral manifestations and establish mechanisms of action.

The program is seeking partnerships to support animal model development, provision of reagents for nanosystems and viral vectors, equipment for behavioral and molecular biology testing, cell culture infrastructure, and funding for key personnel. This represents an opportunity for co-development of novel neuroinflammation-targeted therapeutics with a research group experienced in translational neuroscience.