Study Rationale: Parkinson’s disease (PD) worsens over time, partly due to the spread of a harmful protein called α-synuclein between brain cells. This protein also triggers inflammation, which further damages the brain. A receptor called TLR2 plays a key role in this harmful process. We have developed an antibody, NM-101, that blocks TLR2 and has shown promising results in lab and animal studies. However, delivering NM-101 to the brain is challenging because the blood-brain barrier (BBB) acts as a protective shield, preventing many drugs from reaching brain cells.
Hypothesis: This study aims to improve the brain delivery of NM-101 by packaging it inside tiny nanoparticles (NPs) that can cross the BBB. We will use a technology called DNA barcoding to identify the most effective nanoparticles.
Study Design: We will create 250–300 different types of polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) with unique surface properties to find the ones that best cross the BBB. Each PNP will have a tiny DNA tag, allowing researchers to track which ones successfully reach the brain in pre-clinical models. The most effective PNPs will be used to deliver NM-101 into the brain. We will study how well NM-101 spreads in the brain, how long it stays in the brain, and how effectively it slows PD progression in pre-clinical models.
Impact on Diagnosis/Treatment of Parkinson’s disease: If successful, this study could lead to a breakthrough in Parkinson’s treatment by directly delivering a powerful antibody to the brain. The same nanoparticle approach could also help transport other drugs for brain diseases.
Next Steps for Development: After confirming the treatment's safety in pre-clinical models, We will prepare for clinical trials to test it in Parkinson’s patients.