Neuroprotective potential for mitigating ischemia-reperfusion-induced damage

A ROS-responsive, aptamer-targeted graphene oxide nanocomposite for site-specific glutathione release in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is a major contributor to mortality and long-term disability worldwide, primarily due to excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation after blood flow is restored. Although current treatments focus on reestablishing perfusion, they offer limited protection against the secondary ROS-mediated injury. Here, we report a multifunctional nanocomposite-graphene oxide loaded with glutathione (GSH) and functionalized with a fibrinogen-targeting aptamer (GO@GSH-FA)-capable of selectively releasing antioxidant cargo within the ischemic brain microenvironment. Characterization revealed a drug-loading capacity of 17.59% ± 3.74% and an entrapment efficiency of 78.78% ± 4.55%, highlighting the robust loading of GSH. The ROS-sensitive borate ester linker ensures that GSH is preferentially liberated in oxidative stress regions, while the fibrinogen aptamer actively targets fibrin-rich thrombotic sites. In vitro, GO@GSH-FA significantly restored viability in oxygen-glucose-deprived SH-SY5Y cells (from 31% up to near control levels), reduced inflammatory cytokines, and lowered intracellular ROS. In a Endothelin-1 (ET-1) induced cortical ischemia model, GO@GSH-FA led to a marked decrease in neurological deficit scores (from 7.20 ± 1.16 to 4.20 ± 0.98) and enhanced neuronal survival relative to untreated animals. Collectively, these findings underscore the promise of GO@GSH-FA as a targeted, ROS-responsive platform for mitigating cerebral I/R injury.

The significance of calcium ions in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury: mechanisms and intervention strategies

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) represents a multifaceted pathological phenomenon characterized by an array of molecular and cellular mechanisms, which significantly contribute to neurological dysfunction. Evidence suggests that calcium ions play an indispensable role in this context, as abnormal elevations in calcium concentrations exacerbate neuronal injury and intensify functional deficits. These ions are integral not only for intracellular signaling pathways but also for various pathological processes, such as programmed cell death, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress. This review article elucidates the physiological framework of calcium homeostasis and the precise mechanisms through which calcium ions influence CIRI. Moreover, it addresses potential intervention strategies, including calcium channel blockers, calmodulin (CaM) inhibitors, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory agents. Despite the proposal of certain intervention strategies, their effectiveness and safety in clinical settings warrant further scrutiny. In conclusion, the article highlights the limitations of current research and anticipates future investigative trajectories, aiming to provide a theoretical foundation and reference for the development of more efficacious treatment modalities.