Inhalable nanoparticle may bypass bloodstream when delivering drugs to brain

The problem of delivering drugs to the brain posed by the propensity of the bloodstream to filter some substances out could be overcome thanks to a new technique tested on locusts.

Engineers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a new nanoparticle that, due to its size, can dodge through the blood barrier to the brain and ensure swift delivery in a way that contemporary delivery methods such as injections or pills cannot. 

Using an aerosol spray, the team was able to transmit gold nanoparticles via the antennae of locusts into their brains in a matter of minutes. A similar form of transmission could occur through a nasal spray. 

Research scientist at the School of Engineering & Applied Science Ramesh Raliya said: "The blood-brain barrier protects the brain from foreign substances in the blood that may injure the brain.

"But when we need to deliver something there, getting through that barrier is difficult and invasive. Our non-invasive technique can deliver drugs via nanoparticles, so there's less risk and better response times."

He added that focused ultrasound could divert the drugs to specific targets in the brain, such a tumours.

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Image: 7activestudio