Nasal spray with gold nanoparticles and lithium ions treats neurodegeneration.
A study by Italian scientists has been published in the journal Advanced Materials (AM), presenting a new method for treating psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases using gold nanoparticles.
The researchers created gold particles with a diameter of about two nanometers, stabilized with glutathione and containing lithium ions. When administered via a nasal spray, these particles penetrate the brain and release lithium directly into the cells without increasing its level in the blood. This helps to avoid the toxic effects on the kidneys and thyroid gland that are often observed with oral lithium intake.
Experiments on mice showed that the new delivery method suppresses the activity of the enzyme GSK-3β in the hippocampus — a region of the brain associated with memory and learning. This enzyme plays a key role in the development of Alzheimer's disease, bipolar disorder, and certain viral brain infections.
The scientists note that the method is already patented and could serve as a basis for creating safe medications aimed at treating disorders related to nervous system dysfunction. Additional safety studies are planned in the near future before starting clinical trials in humans.
