Professor Chang, Jin from the School of Life Sciences at Tianjin University, in collaboration with Associate Researcher Dou, Yan from Tianjin Medical University affiliated General Hospital, have achieved a breakthrough by creating a tailored nanomedicine designed specifically for the personalized treatment of Alzheimer's disease in women. Their groundbreaking work has been published in the esteemed international journal "Nano Today”.
Alzheimer's disease is a widespread neurodegenerative disorder marked by a gradual deterioration of memory and cognitive abilities. Globally, millions of individuals grapple with this condition, with noticeable gender disparities, as it disproportionately affects women. Research suggests that the decline in estrogen levels following menopause significantly contributes to women's heightened vulnerability to the disease. Estrogen protects the female central nervous system, fosters neuronal growth, and upholds brain equilibrium. The absence of estrogen post-menopause can trigger neurodegenerative changes and cognitive decline.
Professor Chang, Jin together with Associate Researcher Dou, Yan pioneered a groundbreaking approach. They developed a multi-functional nanomedicine utilizing plant-derived estrogen glycyrrhetinic acid for the targeted treatment of postmenopausal female Alzheimer's disease. This innovative nanomedicine activates neural protective signaling pathways mediated by specific estrogen receptors, thereby improving cognitive functions affected by estrogen deficiency.
Animal studies have illustrated that nanomedicine enhances anti-apoptotic signals, reduces neuronal oxidative damage, and mitigates cholinergic dysfunction in the ovariectomized Alzheimer's mice model. Through efficient brain delivery via nasal administration, promising outcomes have been observed in restoring cognitive functions in these experimental mice. This research presents a novel therapeutic approach tailored for female-specific Alzheimer's disease, marking a significant step towards personalized patient care.
“The pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease is multifaceted. To address this complexity, we've developed a comprehensive series of 9 nanomedicines tailored for its treatment. Our efforts have resulted in the publication of 8 high-impact academic papers, the acquisition of 4 authorized national invention patents, and the disclosure of 1 PCT international patent. Additionally, we're actively engaging in discussions with pharmaceutical companies to identify even more precise nanomedicines for preclinical studies," stated Professor Chang, Jin. "Moving forward, our research will prioritize the development of more refined drug delivery methods aimed at maximizing therapeutic efficacy.”
By Chang Jin
Editor: Eva Yin
