Nano-Formulation of Melatonin for Parkinson’s Disease

Recent studies have brought into light the potential of nano-formulated melatonin as a promising therapeutic approach for Parkinson’s disease (PD). PD is a prevalent neurological disorder characterised by the degeneration of dopamine-secreting neurons in the brain. This degeneration is primarily caused by the aggregation of synuclein protein. Current treatments focus on alleviating symptoms rather than curing the disease. Therefore, there is an urgent need for innovative therapeutic strategies to address the underlying causes of PD.

About Melatonin and Its Role

Melatonin is a neurohormone produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness. It regulates the sleep-wake cycle and has been used to treat insomnia. Recent research indicates that melatonin may also induce mitophagy, a critical process for removing dysfunctional mitochondria and reducing oxidative stress in neurons. Enhanced mitophagy may mitigate the effects of PD, making melatonin a candidate for therapeutic development.

The Importance of Mitophagy in Parkinson’s Disease

Mitophagy is a quality control mechanism that identifies and eliminates unhealthy mitochondria. In PD, dysfunctional mitochondria contribute to oxidative stress, exacerbating neuronal damage. Studies have shown that PD-related genes play role in regulating mitophagy. Therefore, targeting this process could provide a new avenue for treating PD and improving neuronal health.

Research Advances at INST Mohali

Researchers at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) Mohali have developed a nano-formulation of melatonin using human serum albumin (HSA) as a biocompatible nanocarrier. This formulation improves the bioavailability of melatonin and ensures targeted delivery to the brain. The team, led by Dr. Surajit Karmakar, demonstrated that nano-melatonin enhances antioxidative and neuroprotective properties, improving therapeutic efficacy compared to traditional melatonin.

Mechanisms of Action of Nano-Melatonin

The study revealed that nano-melatonin promotes mitophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis, counteracting toxicity induced by pesticides like rotenone in in vitro PD models. The sustained release of melatonin from the nano-formulation leads to increased antioxidative effects. This is primarily due to the upregulation of BMI1, an essential epigenetic regulator that controls gene expression related to mitophagy.

Neuroprotective Effects Observed in Animal Models

Experiments conducted on rat models demonstrated that nano-melatonin protected TH-positive neurons from rotenone-mediated toxicity. The findings indicate that the overexpression of BMI1 following nano-formulation treatment enhances mitophagy, thereby safeguarding neurons from degeneration. This research elucidates the molecular mechanisms through which melatonin mediates neuroprotection in PD.

1. Mitophagy: The process of removing dysfunctional mitochondria for cellular health.
2. BMI1: An epigenetic regulator involved in controlling gene expression and mitophagy.
3. HSA: Human serum albumin, used as a nanocarrier for drug delivery.
4. Neuroprotection: The preservation of neuronal structure and function against injury.
5. Parkinson’s Disease: A neurodegenerative disorder primarily affecting dopamine-producing neurons.

Future Implications of Nano-Melatonin Research

The ongoing research into nano-formulated melatonin opens new possibilities for treating Parkinson’s disease and other conditions associated with dysregulated mitophagy. Continued exploration may lead to the establishment of melatonin as a safer and more effective therapeutic option, ultimately improving the quality of life for patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases.

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2025

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs