Tiny Antioxidant Particles May Aid in Alzheimer's Therapy

Atom-sized antioxidant particles that appear to triple or even quadruple the life of brain cells may be useful in the treatment of certain age-related disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and arthritis, according to University of Central Florida researchers.

Such technology, known as nanotechnology, could revolutionize modern medicine in the future, the researchers report.

By combining their expertise in biomolecular science and engineering, researchers Beverly Rzigalinski and Sudipta Seal developed what they are calling a regenerative antioxidant nanoparticle.

After introducing the miniaturized particles to the brain cells of rats, the researchers found that the cells lived three to four times longer than usual and were signaling or "talking" to each other in the same manner as more youthful cells.

"This shows there is a potential not just to extend the life span but to preserve function," observed Rzigalinski.

The researchers also found that the nanoparticles have potent anti-inflammatory properties. Initial tests show that the nanoparticle anti-oxidants regenerate once they penetrate the cell -- meaning one dose could conceivably continue its therapeutic effects indefinitely.

The end result, according to Rzigalinski and Seal, is that people could live longer and with fewer age-related health problems. They will both receive $1.4 million from the National Institutes of Health, National Institute to continue their research.

Other sources: University of Central Florida