Nanomaterial-based immune therapeutic strategies in neurodegenerative diseases

Abstract

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are a major cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide. The progression of NDs is intricately linked to the disruption of immune homeostasis, which is characterized by excessive activation and infiltration of immune cells. Recent studies have uncovered the potential of nanomaterials (NMs) with immunomodulatory capabilities to effectively manage neuroinflammation and slow the progress of NDs. The review begins by elucidating the mechanisms through which NMs modulate innate and adaptive immune responses in the context of NDs. These mechanisms encompass the dampening of innate immune cell activation, particularly microglia and astrocytes, and the restriction of peripheral adaptive immune cell infiltration into the central nervous system (CNS). By doing so, NMs can alleviate neuroinflammation and promote the repair of damage induced by NDs. The review emphasizes the application of stimulus-responsive NMs for targeted immunomodulation within the CNS. Moreover, it discusses strategies to enhance NM targeting and develop of NM-based active immunotherapies as prospective therapeutic approaches for clinical application. Understanding the mechanisms and applications of NMs is pivotal for unlocking their full potential in immunomodulatory strategies. This knowledge will lay the foundation for novel therapies addressing the unmet clinical needs of NDs.