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Atherosclerosis remains a leading cause of cardiovascular mortality worldwide. While chronic inflammation and oxidative stress drive disease progression, targeted delivery of therapeutics remains a significant challenge. Recent research suggests that niraparib for atherosclerosis treatment could be a game-changer when delivered via a specialized nanoplatform. Researchers have developed NGPPEVs, utilizing platelet-rich plasma-derived extracellular vesicles (PEVs) to carry niraparib directly to inflammatory sites. This approach addresses the limitations of poor in vivo targeting often associated with systemic poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors.
Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) overactivation is a known factor in atherosclerotic progression. Niraparib, traditionally used in oncology, acts as a potent PARP inhibitor. By inhibiting PARP1, this therapy effectively reduces oxidative stress and mitigates cholesterol metabolism pathways that lead to foam cell formation. Furthermore, the NGPPEV platform enhances this effect by generating intracellular gas. Consequently, this allows for precise ultrasound imaging of the plaque sites, combining diagnosis and therapy into one platform.
The success of this platform lies in its ability to downregulate the key scavenger receptor CD36. Mechanistically, NGPPEVs inhibit the PARP1-IL-6-CD36 axis. Therefore, the system prevents macrophages from transforming into foam cells, which is a critical step in plaque buildup. In animal models, specifically apolipoprotein E-deficient mice, the treatment significantly reduced plaque area and enhanced structural stability. Notably, these findings highlight the potential for precise diagnosis and therapy in clinical cardiology. Additionally, the inherent targeting capabilities of PEVs reduce the required dosage, potentially minimizing systemic side effects.
Niraparib inhibits PARP1, which helps suppress inflammatory pathways and cholesterol-related foam cell formation. This action reduces the growth and instability of atherosclerotic plaques.
Platelet-rich plasma-derived extracellular vesicles (PEVs) serve as a natural delivery vehicle. They inherently target inflammatory sites and protect the drug cargo from early degradation in the bloodstream.
Yes, the NGPPEVs generate gas within cells, which enables high-quality ultrasound imaging of atherosclerotic plaques for more precise diagnosis.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.
References
Fang W et al. Platelet-rich plasma-derived extracellular vesicles delivered niraparib for ultrasound imaging and atherosclerosis treatment. J Nanobiotechnology. 2026 Feb 06. doi: 10.1186/s12951-026-04076-z. PMID: 41652437.
Pan H et al. Atherosclerosis Is a Smooth Muscle Cell–Driven Tumor-Like Disease. Circulation. 2024. doi: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.123.067587.
Yao Y et al. Platelet-derived extracellular vesicles to target plaque inflammation for effective anti-atherosclerotic therapy. J Control Release. 2021 Jan 10;329:120-133. doi: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2020.11.064. PMID: 33285103.
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