The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
NEW DELHI, JANUARY 2, 2025
In a groundbreaking development, scientists have unveiled a nano-formulation of melatonin — the brain’s darkness hormone — that demonstrates remarkable antioxidative and neuroprotective properties, positioning it as a promising therapeutic solution for Parkinson’s disease (PD). This innovative approach has been spearheaded by researchers at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) Mohali, under the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
Parkinson’s disease, a debilitating neurological disorder, arises from the death of dopamine-producing neurons due to the aggregation of synuclein protein. Current treatments provide symptomatic relief but fall short of addressing the root causes, underlining the urgent need for novel therapies.
Over the last decade, scientific studies have spotlighted the role of PD-related genes in regulating “mitophagy,” a quality control mechanism that clears dysfunctional mitochondria and reduces oxidative stress. Among various antioxidants, melatonin has emerged as a potential mitophagy inducer. However, challenges such as low bioavailability and premature oxidation have limited its therapeutic efficacy—until now.
Dr. Surajit Karmakar and his team employed human serum albumin (HSA) nanocarriers to enhance melatonin’s delivery to the brain. Their research revealed that nano-melatonin offered sustained release, improved bioavailability, and targeted brain delivery. These advancements led to significantly enhanced antioxidative and neuroprotective effects, as demonstrated in both in vitro and in vivo Parkinson’s models.
The study, published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, underscores the role of nano-melatonin in improving mitochondrial health. By promoting mitophagy, the nano-formulation effectively removed unhealthy mitochondria and stimulated mitochondrial biogenesis, countering the neurotoxic effects of the pesticide rotenone. A pivotal finding was the upregulation of BMI1, an epigenetic regulator, which played a critical role in reducing oxidative stress and protecting neurons from degeneration.
Further experiments showed that nano-melatonin safeguarded TH-positive neurons in the brains of rats, highlighting its potential to mitigate neurodegeneration. The researchers also identified BMI1’s role in inducing mitophagy, offering deeper insights into the molecular dynamics behind melatonin’s protective effects.
This pioneering work not only establishes nano-melatonin as a viable candidate for Parkinson’s therapy but also paves the way for its application in other diseases linked to mitophagy dysfunction. With continued exploration, this novel drug delivery system could significantly improve the quality of life for patients while reinforcing the therapeutic promise of melatonin.
As Dr. Karmakar’s team continues to refine this technology, the potential to revolutionize Parkinson’s treatment and extend its benefits to related disorders becomes increasingly tangible, offering a beacon of hope for millions worldwide.
