The Protective Effects of Nanoparticles in the Treatment of Nervous System Injuries: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Nervous system damage causes many economic costs annually. Although many efforts have been made to treat these injuries, nerves are not yet completely regenerated. Primary damage to the nervous system is followed by a series of events such as inflammation, increased oxidative stress, and the spread of damage. Oxidative stress caused by an imbalance between the production of free radicals and metabolic reactions can damage mitochondria, proteins, cell membrane structures, and adipose tissue, and over time causes damage and disease of nerves system. Nerve cells need a lot of oxygen and antioxidants, so low levels of antioxidants or an excessive increase in the production of free radicals can exacerbate the damage.The use of synthetic or natural antioxidants is necessary to prevent oxidative stress and its destructive effects. In this regard, nanoparticles with long half-lives can be promising in the treatment of diseases of the nervous system. Therefore, the biological use of nanoparticles, as a new therapeutic approach that is still in its infancy, has been emphasized in the treatment of diseases and lesions of the nervous system. Therefore, the aim of this article was to determine the protective effects of nanoparticles in the treatment of nervous system lesions.

Neuroprotective Effects of Fe3O4 Nanoparticles Coated with Omega-3 as a Novel Drug for Recovery of Sciatic Nerve Injury in Rats

“…The administration of neuroprotective medications after nerve injuries is an effective method for limiting damage and enhancing nerve regeneration. Utilizing nanotechnology to synthesize neuroprotective agents can improve pharmacotherapy efficacy (7,11). In this regard, magnetic NPs such as Fe 3 O 4 are effective nano systems for managing drug delivery (12,13).…”

“…In our study, therefore, it was attempted to employ nanotechnology in order for developing a combined therapy method for healing peripheral nerve injury through application of iron oxide (Fe 3 O 4 ) and Magnetite NPs coated with omega-3. As a carrier, the drug is attached to polymeric NPs, and the NPs facilitate therapeutic agent delivery and absorption into the target tissue (7). Iron oxide NPs have received considerable attention compared to other magnetic NPs due to their unique magnetic properties, biocompatibility, and low cytotoxicity (8).…”