A novel nanoparticle developed by researchers at the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine shows potential for both diagnosing and treating atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by plaque buildup in arteries. This innovation could lead to earlier detection and more effective management of cardiovascular diseases, which account for over 17 million deaths globally each year, according to the World Health Organization. In Singapore, cardiovascular diseases were responsible for 31% of deaths in 2022.
The study, published in the journal Small, details how these nanoparticles, measuring between 1 and 100 nanometers, can identify atherosclerotic plaques and deliver therapeutic agents directly to the affected areas. The particles break down in the acidic environment of plaques, releasing gadolinium, a contrast agent that enhances magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This allows for real-time visualization of plaque severity.
Targeted Drug Delivery
In addition to their diagnostic capabilities, the nanoparticles simultaneously deliver simvastatin, an anti-inflammatory drug known to stabilize plaques and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Assistant Professor Wang Jiong-Wei, who led the study, likened the nanoparticles to delivery vehicles that transport both imaging and treatment agents directly to the plaque.
"If there is no inflammation at all, no plaque on the blood vessels, those nanoparticles will just pass by. That’s the big advantage of nanotechnology," Prof. Wang explained, highlighting the reduced risk of systemic side effects in patients without arterial inflammation.
Potential Clinical Impact
The targeted delivery mechanism ensures that the drug primarily affects the diseased tissue, minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. According to Prof. Wang, this approach could streamline patient care by potentially eliminating the need for multiple specialists for diagnosis and treatment, saving patients time and money. The nanoparticles degrade or are harmlessly excreted from the body within a few days in individuals without arterial inflammation.
The multidisciplinary study involved collaboration with Associate Professor James Kah and Professor Liu Bin from the College of Design and Engineering at NUS, as well as Professor Liu Xiaogang from the chemistry department at the NUS Faculty of Science.
