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Acute brain injuries, such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and perinatal asphyxia, cause a cascade of ischemia and inflammation. These events lead to a critical depletion of ATP, which is the primary energy currency of the brain. To combat this, researchers have developed Nicotinamide-loaded peptoid nanotubes as a novel delivery system for metabolic recovery.
The study highlights how Nicotinamide (NAM), a precursor to NAD+, is essential for energy regeneration and DNA repair. However, standard NAM delivery often struggles with cell-specific targeting. By using self-assembling peptoids, scientists created biocompatible nanotubes (NAM-PNTs) that precisely deliver the drug to affected areas. These nanotubes vary in length and allow for optimal cellular uptake.
Furthermore, researchers tested the efficacy of these nanotubes in both cell-based and animal models. In oxygen-glucose-deprived cells, NAM-PNTs replenished intracellular ATP levels within 24 hours. Consequently, this treatment significantly enhanced cell viability. Moreover, microglia took up the nanotubes via fluid-phase phagocytosis and caveolae-mediated endocytosis.
Additionally, the treatment promoted glial proliferation and reduced proinflammatory cytokines in organotypic brain slices. In neonatal rat models of hypoxia-ischemia, a single dose of NAM-PNTs reduced brain tissue loss and improved neuropathology. Therefore, this innovative platform represents a significant step forward in neonatal brain injury therapy.
These are biocompatible, self-assembled nanostructures designed to deliver nicotinamide directly into brain cells to restore energy and repair damage after an injury.
They specifically target microglia to replenish ATP levels, reduce harmful inflammation, and minimize the loss of brain tissue during the acute phase of an injury.
Currently, NAM-PNTs have shown efficacy in pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo models. Further clinical trials are necessary to determine their safety and effectiveness in humans.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or establish a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.
References
Du H et al. Nicotinamide-Loaded Peptoid Nanotubes for Energy Regeneration in Acute Brain Injury. ACS Nano. 2026 Apr 13. doi: 10.1021/acsnano.5c19897. PMID: 41973499.
Zhao Y, et al. Nicotinamide reduces hypoxic ischemic brain injury in the newborn rat. Brain Res. 2010;1344:202-209. doi: 10.1016/j.brainres.2010.05.004.
Loane DJ, Kumar A. Microglia activation in traumatic brain injury. Front Aging Neurosci. 2016;8:210. doi: 10.3389/fnagi.2016.00210.
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NAM-loaded peptoid nanotubes offer a novel way to replenish ATP and reduce inflammation in acute brain injuries, showing promise for neonatal recovery....
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