In a significant leap forward for neurodegenerative disease research, a collaborative team of Indian scientists has developed a novel nanoparticle-based therapy for Alzheimer's disease, dramatically improving the survival rate of damaged brain cells from around 40-50% to nearly 90%. This pioneering work, published in the prestigious international journal Small, offers a multi-pronged attack on one of the most complex brain disorders.
A Multi-Targeted Approach to a Complex Disease
The research was led by a consortium of institutions including the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) in Mohali, the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) in Raebareli, and Gujarat Biotechnology University (GBU) in Gandhinagar. Unlike conventional treatments that often focus on a single symptom or cause, this new strategy is multifunctional.
"This research shows a new and promising way to treat Alzheimer's disease by using tiny particles that work on multiple problems at once — removing toxic proteins, protecting brain cells, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain repair," explained Prof. Nisha Singh, Assistant Professor of Bioinformatics at Gujarat Biotechnology University, who played a key computational role in the study.
Prof. Singh, who holds a PhD in Plant Genomics and completed postdoctoral research at Cornell University, USA, utilized computational modelling and bioinformatics to validate how the nanoparticles interact with and dismantle the harmful amyloid-beta protein plaques central to Alzheimer's pathology.
The Science Behind the Breakthrough Nanoparticles
The core innovation lies in the design of the nanoparticles, termed EDTNPs. These are engineered from three distinct molecules: EGCG (a natural antioxidant from green tea), Dopamine (a crucial brain chemical), and Tryptophan (an essential amino acid). This combination allows the particles to prevent the formation of toxic protein clumps and help clear existing plaques.
To amplify the therapeutic effect, the researchers enhanced these nanoparticles with BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), a protein vital for neuron growth and health, creating what they call B-EDTNPs.
Laboratory tests on brain-like cells yielded remarkable results: cells severely damaged by Alzheimer's-related proteins showed a survival rate surge from approximately 40-50% to nearly 90% when treated with B-EDTNPs, a significant improvement over the base EDTNPs. Subsequent animal studies confirmed that these nanoparticles effectively broke down harmful plaques, reduced brain inflammation, and led to substantial improvements in memory, learning, and behaviour.
Personal Triumph and Institutional Support
The Director General of GBU, Dr. Subeer S. Majumdar, highlighted the inspiring personal journey of Prof. Nisha Singh during this demanding project. "She continued to lead and contribute to this demanding project during her pregnancy, balancing motherhood and high-impact scientific responsibility with remarkable determination," he stated.
Dr. Majumdar emphasized that her experience stands as a powerful symbol of women's empowerment in science, demonstrating that professional excellence and personal milestones can coexist with institutional support and resilience, inspiring young women scientists across India.
The research was spearheaded by Dr. Jiban Jyoti Panda and his team at INST Mohali, with critical contributions from Dr. Ashok Kumar Datusalia of NIPER Raebareli and Dr. Nisha Singh of GBU. This interdisciplinary effort underscores the growing importance of advanced computational biology in developing next-generation healthcare solutions.
Gujarat Biotechnology University, located near GIFT City in Gandhinagar and established by the Gujarat Government's Department of Science and Technology, focuses on research-led education and innovation, aiming to translate laboratory discoveries into real-world solutions aligned with national priorities.
