University of Salerno

Gold Nanoparticle Nasal Spray Delivers Targeted Lithium Therapy to Brain for Neuropsychiatric Disorders

- Italian researchers have developed lithium-loaded gold nanoparticles delivered via nasal spray that target the brain directly, bypassing systemic circulation and reducing side effects associated with oral lithium therapy. - The nanotechnology successfully inhibited GSK-3β enzyme activity in mouse hippocampus and restored memory deficits in an Alzheimer's disease model after two months of treatment. - The approach achieves therapeutic lithium concentrations using significantly lower doses than oral administration, potentially revolutionizing treatment for bipolar disorder, Alzheimer's disease, and viral brain infections. - The technology has received patents in Italy and internationally, with ongoing studies to assess safety and expand clinical applications for neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases.