Tiny tech targets Parkinson’s neuroinflammation
Scientists have created tiny capsules that deliver anti-inflammatory proteins to reduce brain inflammation linked to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
The system, named AstroCapsules, encloses human astrocytes – star-shaped brain cells that support healthy nervous system function – inside small, biocompatible hydrogel containers.
When equipped with an anti-inflammatory protein called interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), the encapsulated cells eased neuroinflammation in tests using human brain tissue samples and mouse models.
Researchers from Houston Methodist and Rice University developed the capsules, each about 300 micrometres wide – roughly the size of a grain of sand.
The capsules act as a barrier between implanted astrocytes and brain tissue, allowing local release of proteins while avoiding immune rejection and preventing the cells from spreading through the brain.
“This system solves several current problems with cell-based therapeutics to the nervous system,” said Robert Krencik, associate professor in the centre for neuroregeneration and department of neurosurgery at the Houston Methodist Research Institute.
“Because the capsules will form a physical barrier between the implanted astrocytes and brain tissue, cells are expected to locally secrete anti-inflammatory proteins while avoiding immune rejection and unwanted migration throughout the brain.
“This will increase stability of the treatment while reducing side effects.”
The team tested the AstroCapsules with organoids – lab-grown human brain tissue – and confirmed they worked when implanted without triggering an immune response.
Neuroinflammation is linked to a range of brain conditions including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, suggesting the approach could apply beyond a single disorder.
“Encapsulating cells in a way that shields them from immune attack has been a central challenge in the field,” said co-corresponding author Omid Veiseh, professor of bioengineering at Rice University.
“In our lab, we have been working on biomaterials for many years, and this project was an opportunity to draw from that experience to address the uniquely complex immune environment of the brain. Our hope is that this work will help move cell therapies closer to becoming real treatment options for patients with neurodegenerative disease.”
The researchers said the system offers a new way to treat devastating neurodegenerative diseases and shows how cell therapy can directly reduce damaging inflammation in the brain.
