Scientists have developed Por-NPs (Por-NPs) nanoparticles capable of detecting and eliminating dangerous plaque in arteries. Measuring just 20 nanometers in size, they are coated with a special peptide, R4F, that directs plaque directly to macrophages.
Macrophages are immune cells that absorb cholesterol in blood vessel walls. When overloaded with cholesterol, they transform into so-called foam cells, forming inflamed atherosclerotic plaques. The new approach allows for early intervention in this process.
The nanoparticles glow under certain light and can be labeled with the radioactive isotope copper-64, allowing their movement through the body to be tracked using PET scans.
Experiments in mice have shown impressive results. In animals with early signs of atherosclerosis, treatment with the nanoparticles reduced plaque size by 23% and by 52% in mice with more severe forms. Furthermore, the activity of genes associated with vascular inflammation was significantly reduced.
Experts believe that Por-NPs could be an important supplement to existing treatments for cardiovascular disease. In the future, this technology could also potentially prevent heart attacks and strokes at an early stage.
