Optimization and characterization of miRNA-129- 5p-encapsulated poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles to reprogram activated microglia

Nanoscale Advances, 2023 · DOI: 10.1039/d3na00149k · Published: May 5, 2023

Simple Explanation

Microglia, immune cells in the brain, can cause inflammation. The study explores using nanoparticles to deliver a specific microRNA (miRNA-129-5p) to reduce this inflammation. The nanoparticles are made of PLGA, a safe material, and are designed to release the miRNA slowly and steadily. The goal is to find the best nanoparticle design to help reprogram microglia and reduce inflammation in brain diseases.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Level: Not specified, Study type: In vitro

Key Findings

1
PLGA-miR+Sp and PLGA-miR+PEI formulations were found to be significant in their immunomodulatory effects compared to naked PLGA-based NPs.
2
These nanoformulations promoted a sustained release of miRNA-129-5p and polarization of activated microglia into a more pro-regenerative phenotype.
3
The nanoformulations enhanced the expression of multiple regeneration-associated factors, while alleviating the expression of pro-inflammatory factors.

Research Summary

The study optimized PLGA-based nanoparticles for delivering miRNA-129-5p to modulate activated microglia. Nanoformulations PLGA-miR+Sp and PLGA-miR+PEI showed significant immunomodulatory effects, sustained miRNA release, and polarization of microglia. The proposed nanoformulations highlight promising therapeutic tools for synergistic immunomodulatory effects between PLGA-based NPs and miRNA-129-5p.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

The nanoformulations can be utilized for inflammation-derived diseases by modulating activated microglia.

Drug Delivery

The study provides insights into designing effective miRNA delivery systems using PLGA nanoparticles.

Neurodegenerative Disease Treatment

Reprogramming activated microglia could be a therapeutic strategy for neuroinflammation-mediated disorders such as multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease.

Study Limitations

1
The study is limited to in vitro analysis.
2
The long-term effects and potential toxicity of the nanoformulations are not evaluated.
3
The study does not explore the efficacy of the nanoformulations in complex in vivo models.

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