Reviewed by Lexie CornerOct 30 2024
According to a recent study published in ACS Nano, researchers at the Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation have created a novel nanoparticle-based therapy for the treatment of obesity.
By targeting inflammatory cells in adipose tissue, the novel method alters the immune system and encourages the browning of fat tissue. The study discusses the limitations of the available treatments as well as the expanding global obesity epidemic.
Under the direction of Dr. Alireza Hassani Najafabadi, the study presents Sim-NPs, which are PLGA nanoparticles loaded with simvastatin and delivered locally to adipose tissues.
These nanoparticles showed potent anti-inflammatory properties, improved macrophage polarization modulation, and induced adipose tissue browning in lab tests and a mouse model of diet-induced obesity. Weight loss resulted from the treatment’s effective inhibition of inflammation linked to obesity and control of white fat production.
By using nanoparticles to deliver simvastatin directly to adipose tissue, we've been able to target the inflammatory processes that contribute to obesity while potentially reducing systemic side effects.
Dr. Hassani Najafabadi, Core Faculty, Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation
Dr. Ali Khademhosseini, Director and CEO of the Terasaki Institute, added, “This research exemplifies our commitment to finding innovative solutions to pressing public health challenges.”
The team plans to further refine the nanoparticle delivery system and prepare for additional preclinical research to assess the treatment's safety and effectiveness. This monotherapy approach could provide advantages over traditional delivery methods and help create more successful future obesity treatments.
Journal Reference:
Mohaghegh, N. et. al. (2024) Simvastatin-Loaded Polymeric Nanoparticles: Targeting Inflammatory Macrophages for Local Adipose Tissue Browning in Obesity Treatment. ACS Nano. doi.org/10.1021/acsnano.4c10742