Nanomaterials as therapeutic agents to modulate astrocyte-mediated inflammation in spinal cord injury

Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) can lead to lasting dysfunction and paralysis. Current treatments often fall short, but nanomaterials offer a promising avenue by targeting astrocyte-mediated inflammation, which plays a crucial role in TSCI recovery. This review explores how different nanomaterials, including organic, bioderived, and inorganic types, can regulate astrocyte-mediated inflammation after TSCI. These nanomaterials can deliver anti-inflammatory drugs directly to the injury site, extend the life of these drugs in the body, and offer synergistic therapeutic effects. The review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current research landscape, proposing innovative avenues for investigating pathogenic mechanisms and developing clinical interventions for TSCI.

• 1
  Organic nanomaterials, like PLGA nanoparticles, can effectively reduce the production of inflammatory factors by astrocytes and restrict glial scarring, improving behavioral performance in rats.
• 2
  Bioderived nanomaterials, such as MSC-Exo, have shown potential in mitigating inflammation by downregulating the phosphorylated NF-κB P65 subunit, leading to a decrease in lesion area and improved expression of neuroprotective markers.
• 3
  Inorganic nanomaterials, like cerium dioxide nanoparticles, can inhibit astrocyte-activation-related NF-κB expression and enhance Nrf2 expression, suggesting their potential in inhibiting inflammation and nerve injury.