Recent advancements have positioned nano-formulated melatonin as a promising candidate for addressing Parkinson’s Disease (PD), a debilitating neurodegenerative condition. PD is characterized by the progressive loss of dopamine-producing neurons, primarily due to the aggregation of the alpha-synuclein protein. Current treatments focus predominantly on symptomatic relief, highlighting the pressing need for therapeutic strategies targeting the root causes of neuronal degeneration.
Melatonin and Its Emerging Role in Neuroprotection
Produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness, melatonin is well-known for regulating the sleep-wake cycle and treating insomnia. However, recent findings suggest its potential in inducing mitophagy, a vital process that clears out damaged mitochondria and reduces oxidative stress in neurons. These neuroprotective effects make melatonin an attractive option for developing therapies aimed at mitigating PD-related neuronal damage.
Mitophagy: A Novel Therapeutic Target in PD
The process of mitophagy—critical for maintaining mitochondrial health—plays a significant role in the pathology of PD. Dysfunctional mitochondria are major contributors to oxidative stress, which accelerates neuronal damage. Insights from genetic studies reveal that mitophagy is regulated by genes associated with PD, further reinforcing its importance as a therapeutic target for preserving neuronal integrity.
Research Breakthroughs at INST Mohali
At the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, researchers have engineered a nano-formulation of melatonin encapsulated in human serum albumin (HSA), a biocompatible carrier. This nanoform enhances melatonin’s bioavailability and ensures precise delivery to the brain. Under the leadership of Dr. Surajit Karmakar, the research demonstrated that this formulation amplifies melatonin’s antioxidative and neuroprotective effects, significantly improving its efficacy compared to conventional delivery methods.
How Nano-Melatonin Works
The nano-formulated melatonin operates through several mechanisms that target PD pathology:
- Boosting Mitophagy: The formulation enhances mitophagic activity, enabling the clearance of damaged mitochondria and promoting mitochondrial regeneration.
- Epigenetic Regulation: It stimulates the expression of BMI1, an epigenetic factor that governs mitophagy-related gene activity, thereby bolstering neuronal resilience.
- Prolonged Antioxidative Action: The sustained release profile of the nanoformulation ensures consistent antioxidative effects, mitigating neuroinflammation and oxidative stress.
Animal Model Findings
Experiments conducted on rat models of PD showcased the robust neuroprotective potential of nano-melatonin. Treated rats exhibited protection of TH-positive neurons from rotenone-induced damage, attributed to enhanced mitophagy and BMI1 upregulation. These results underscore the molecular pathways through which nano-melatonin combats neuronal degeneration, paving the way for advanced neurotherapeutic strategies.
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