Researchers have found that a nano-formulation of melatonin, a hormone produced by the brain in response to darkness, could be a promising treatment for Parkinson’s disease (PD).
Parkinson’s is a neurological disorder caused by the loss of brain cells that produce dopamine, leading to problems with movement and coordination. Current treatments can only manage symptoms, but they cannot cure the disease.
Melatonin, which is known for regulating sleep, has been studied for its potential to protect brain cells from damage.
However, its effectiveness is limited by how well it can reach the brain. To overcome this, scientists from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, developed a way to deliver melatonin more effectively using tiny carriers (nano-formulations) that release the hormone slowly over time.
Their studies showed that this nano-formulated melatonin helped protect brain cells by reducing stress caused by damaged mitochondria (the energy producers in cells).
It also promoted the growth of new, healthy mitochondria, which is important in Parkinson’s treatment.
The researchers found that this approach worked better than using regular melatonin.
The study also revealed that nano-melatonin triggered a key process (mitophagy) that helps remove damaged parts of the cell, improving the health of brain cells in lab tests and animal models.
This method could lead to better treatments for Parkinson’s and possibly other conditions linked to cell damage.