The Magnetic Cure? Nanotechnology’s Role in Parkinson’s Future : A Systematic Review

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Introduction:  Parkinson's disease (PD) is a gradual neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. Treatments for this disease are varied; some include dopamine replacement therapy, deep brain stimulation, and MRI-guided focused ultrasound, which provides symptomatic relief. Despite extensive studies, PD still does not have a fully curable treatment. In comparison to existing treatments, magnetic nanotechnology is non-invasive and offers enhanced treatment efficiency and reduced systemic side effects. It also promises neuroregeneration and can additionally be used for imaging and disease progression. This systematic review explores the potential of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in the treatment and theranostics in Parkinson's and focuses on their mechanism of action.

Methods: A systematic review using platforms such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science was conducted that analyzed the application of magnetic nanoparticles in PD models. The inclusion criteria were papers from the last 10 years and MNP-mediated drug delivery, neuroregeneration, stem cell therapy, or imaging in PD model animals or experimental studies. Exclusion criteria were studies without animal or experimental data and also papers that are not published in English. The initial search retrieved 20 studies, for which peer-reviewed screening was done to result in the original 12 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Search terms used were 'Parkinson’s disease,' 'magnetic nanotechnology,' 'superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles,' 'targeted drug delivery,' 'neuromodulation,' and 'theranostics.' Data extraction was concentrated on nanoparticle composition, targeting mechanisms, safety profiles, and preclinical and clinical outcomes.

Results: This review studied 12 papers wherein magnetic nanotechnology shows immense potential in treatment for PD. Studies were categorized into MNPs as a direct application to PD and as a general application of MNPs. Out of these, five papers discussed the potential MNPs hold towards the treatment of PD. These findings show a promise of neurite outgrowth and regeneration in response to magnetic guidance. Two papers talk about the importance of homing adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) under magnetic guidance to the substantia nigra, where the ADSCs can differentiate into various cell types, including neurons and glial cells, which are relevant for PD treatment. Other studies demonstrate the usage of MNPs in theranostics and stem cell therapy in PD. Given the promising avenue for PD treatment with magnetic nanotechnology, further research needs to be conducted for human trials, its long-term safety and efficacy, and delving deeper into its neuroprotective mechanism.

Conclusion: Magnetic nanotechnology shows an innovative approach in PD treatment and also shows promise in overcoming the current therapeutic limitations seen. Advances in the engineering of magnetic nanoparticles, along with well-improved strategies in magnetic targeting, can facilitate a path for clinical applications. Clinical trials on a large scale as well as well-developed delivery systems to improve efficacy and safety should be something future researchers should concentrate on. This systematic review looks upon the necessity for interdisciplinary coordination to fast-track the translation of magnetic nanoparticles into practical Parkinson's disease treatments.