Goji Berry Nanoparticles Protect Vision by Preventing Cell Death in the Retina

Jim Crocker
13th July, 2024

Goji Berry Nanoparticles Protect Vision by Preventing Cell Death in the Retina

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • Researchers at Huazhong University of Science and Technology developed PLBP nanoparticles to protect retinal cells
  • PLBP nanoparticles reduce oxidative stress by activating the NRF2 pathway, which helps prevent cell damage
  • These nanoparticles also decrease neuroinflammation by inhibiting the activity of immune cells in the retina
Retinal ischemia-reperfusion (IR) is a significant cause of vision impairment and irreversible vision loss, primarily due to the injury or loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Current treatments mainly focus on alleviating symptoms rather than addressing the root causes. Oxidative stress is a key factor in IR damage. A recent study conducted by researchers at Huazhong University of Science and Technology introduces an innovative approach to mitigate this issue by using Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) modified with phenylboronic acid pinacol ester (PBA) to form nanoparticles, termed PLBP, which show promising neuroprotective effects[1]. Oxidative stress is a condition characterized by excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can damage cells and tissues. In the context of retinal diseases, oxidative stress contributes significantly to the breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) and subsequent retinal damage[2]. The study from Huazhong University of Science and Technology explores the potential of PLBP nanoparticles to reduce oxidative stress and protect RGCs from damage. LBP, derived from the Lycium barbarum plant, is known for its antioxidant, immunoregulatory, and neuroprotective properties. By introducing the ROS-consumable PBA moiety to LBP molecules, the researchers were able to create nanoparticles that self-assemble in aqueous solutions. These PLBP nanoparticles can effectively lower cellular ROS levels and enhance the antioxidant capacity of RGCs by activating the NRF2 pathway. The NRF2 pathway is crucial for cellular defense against oxidative stress, and its activation helps in reducing oxidative damage and preventing cell death through ferroptosis, a type of cell death associated with iron and ROS. Additionally, the study highlights that PLBP nanoparticles also reduce neuroinflammation. Inflammation is a common feature in various ocular diseases, including glaucoma, where it contributes to disease progression and tissue damage[3]. The PLBP nanoparticles inhibit the activity of microglia, the primary immune cells in the retina. By reducing the microglia's ability to phagocytose, migrate, secrete inflammatory cytokines, and activate the NF-κB pathway, PLBP helps in mitigating neuroinflammation. This dual action of reducing oxidative stress and inflammation makes PLBP a potent neuroprotective agent. Previous studies have shown that oxidative stress and inflammation are critical factors in the pathogenesis of various retinal diseases. For instance, in glaucomatous optic neuropathy (GON), both mechanical and vascular factors contribute to optic nerve damage, with oxidative stress playing a significant role in the progression of the disease[4]. Similarly, inflammation is involved in the dysfunction of the trabecular meshwork and elevated intraocular pressure in glaucoma, further exacerbating the condition[3]. The findings from Huazhong University of Science and Technology provide a new avenue for addressing these underlying issues by targeting both oxidative stress and inflammation with PLBP nanoparticles. In conclusion, the study from Huazhong University of Science and Technology presents a novel approach to protecting retinal ganglion cells from IR injury by using PLBP nanoparticles. These nanoparticles not only reduce oxidative stress by activating the NRF2 pathway but also mitigate neuroinflammation by inhibiting microglial activity. This dual-action mechanism offers a promising strategy for the development of future neuroprotective drugs, potentially improving outcomes for patients with retinal ischemia and other related conditions.

MedicineHealthBiochem

References

Main Study

1) Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharide-Derived Nanoparticles Protect Visual Function by Inhibiting RGC Ferroptosis and Microglial Activation in Retinal Ischemia‒Reperfusion Mice.

Published 12th July, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1002/adhm.202304285

Related Studies

2) Blood-retinal barrier in hypoxic ischaemic conditions: basic concepts, clinical features and management.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.preteyeres.2008.09.003

3) Inflammation in Glaucoma: From the back to the front of the eye, and beyond.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100916

4) The impact of ocular blood flow in glaucoma.

Journal: Progress in retinal and eye research, Issue: Vol 21, Issue 4, Jul 2002


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