Recent scientific developments indicate that experimental nasal sprays utilizing extracellular vesicles could offer a non-invasive method to combat Alzheimer’s disease by reducing brain inflammation, clearing toxic protein buildup, and preserving memory. Menni Research Center of Fondazione Poliambulanza, these nanovesicles travel directly to the hippocampus to target overactive immune cells and protect neuronal function.
How Amniotic Membrane Vesicles Target the Hippocampus
A nasal spray containing extracellular vesicles naturally released by cells may help treat Alzheimer’s disease, according to research published in Translational Neurodegeneration by scientists at Università Cattolica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Menni Research Center of Fondazione Poliambulanza. The experimental treatment uses extracellular vesicles derived from the amniotic membrane, which is the tissue surrounding a developing baby during pregnancy.
When administered through the nose to an animal model designed to mimic features of Alzheimer’s disease, the nanovesicles traveled directly to the hippocampus. This brain region is central to memory functions and is particularly vulnerable to Alzheimer’s-related damage. Once inside the brain, the vesicles entered both neurons and microglia, which are specialized cells involved in monitoring and defending neural tissue. The treatment influenced neuroinflammation, neuronal function, and the health of synapses, which are the connections through which nerve cells transmit information. According to the research team, these biological effects correlated with significant cognitive improvements, preventing memory deficits from developing and counteracting cognitive decline after it emerged.
Did You Know? The hippocampus is one of the first regions of the brain to suffer damage from Alzheimer’s disease, leading to early problems with memory loss and disorientation.
Testing the Nasal Spray Approach in Human Neurons
To establish a translational element for the research, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS utilized its Memory Clinic to collect skin biopsies from both Alzheimer’s patients and healthy participants. Researchers used these cells to generate pluripotent stem cells and subsequently human neurons. This laboratory model allowed the team to investigate the direct effects of amniotic extracellular vesicles on human neural cells.
The study was led by Dr. Andrea Papait, a cellular and applied biology researcher, alongside Dr. Francesca Natale, a physiology researcher. Their work combined studies on the biological and immunomodulatory properties of amniotic extracellular vesicles with their observed impacts on neuroinflammation, neuronal function, and memory retention. While these laboratory findings and animal model experiments show promise, researchers emphasize that further studies are required to establish the treatment’s safety, effectiveness, and appropriate dosage in humans.
Comparing Nasal Spray Strategies: Amniotic Vesicles Versus Stem Cell Treatments
Parallel investigations into nasal spray interventions for neurodegenerative conditions highlight differing approaches to targeting brain inflammation. While the Italian study led by Dr. Papait and Dr. Natale focused on amniotic membrane-derived extracellular vesicles reaching the hippocampus to protect synapses, separate research from Texas A & M University College of Medicine utilized anti-inflammatory treatments derived from stem cells in extracellular vesicles administered to a mouse model.
According to findings reported by Medical News Today, the Texas A & M University research team administered two doses of their nasal spray a week apart to young mice. Their analysis showed reduced microglial clusters, decreased activation of genes associated with neuroinflammation, and fewer beta-amyloid plaques compared to untreated subjects. Courtney Kloske, PhD, Alzheimer’s Association director of scientific engagement—who was not involved in the Texas A & M study—noted to Medical News Today that while these findings are encouraging, human studies in representative populations are necessary to fully validate how complex immune cells like microglia respond to such interventions.
Pro Tip: When evaluating early-stage neurological treatments, experts recommend distinguishing between preclinical animal models and human clinical trials, as safety and efficacy must always be confirmed through rigorous human studies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nasal Spray Treatments for Alzheimer’s
How do extracellular vesicle nasal sprays target the brain?
When administered through the nose in experimental models, nanovesicles travel directly to vulnerable brain regions like the hippocampus, where they enter neurons and microglia to reduce inflammation.
What are beta-amyloid plaques?
Beta-amyloid plaques are abnormal protein clusters that build up between nerve cells in the brain, serving as a characteristic pathological sign of Alzheimer’s disease.
Are these nasal spray treatments available for patients now?
No. According to researchers at Università Cattolica and the Alzheimer’s Association, extensive further research, safety evaluations, and clinical trials in humans are required before these treatments can be made available.
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