Researchers of Rutgers University have reported to develop a smart drug delivery system that exhibits potential in subsiding inflammation in damaged nervous tissues indicating that it might help in the treatment of spinal cord injuries and various neurological disorders. Researchers also informed that this drug delivery system uses extremely thin biomaterials imbedded in the body and further protects the axons (nerve fibers) connected to the nerve cells in injured neural tissues.
It is evident that inflammation occurs during recovering from central nervous system diseases and injuries. Several regenerative therapeutics exhibited potential for treating spinal cord injuries, neurological disorders, traumatic brain injuries, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, stroke among others, however this medications suppresses the immune system during treatment. Researchers also informed that suppressing the immune system during treatment can result into side effects and augments the risk of infection.
KiBum Lee, senior author, stated, “A major goal is to suppress neuroinflammation and restore a healthy micro-environment at sites of neurological disorders. “Our system took four years to develop and has shown enormous potential for smart drug delivery for better treatment of neurological disorders.
In addition, researchers informed that the novel drug delivery system comprises ultrathin nanomaterials, neural proteins and sugar polymers and discharges an anti-inflammatory molecule (methylprednisolone), which build an advantageous micro-environment that stimulate tissue repair and recovery after neurological damage.
Researchers also reported that the team further aims to enhance the treatment of neurological disorders and research team believes that this novel drug system might not be limited to central nervous system injuries, but can aid in the treatment of other diseases, as inflammation is commonly associated with numerous other health conditions such as osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.