Innovative Bioengineered System Targets Neuroinflammation in the Brain

Neuroinflammation is a key factor in the development of serious brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. To combat this, a collaborative team from Houston Methodist and Rice University has engineered a miniature bio-based system capable of delivering anti-inflammatory proteins directly to targeted areas within the brain. This groundbreaking approach, detailed in their recent study published in the journal Biomaterials, involves the creation of AstroCapsules—tiny biocompatible hydrogel capsules that enclose human astrocytes, star-shaped cells essential for maintaining healthy brain function.

The research led by Associate Professor Robert Krencik from Houston Methodist highlights that when these astrocytes are engineered to secrete interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), an anti-inflammatory protein, they can effectively reduce neuroinflammation by lowering inflammatory biomarkers. Remarkably, these AstroCapsules are approximately 300 micrometers in size—about the diameter of a large grain of sand—and have demonstrated the capacity to function within the brain while resisting immune rejection. The team tested these capsules using human brain organoids and mouse models.

According to Krencik, the design of the system creates a physical barrier that shields the implanted cells from immune attacks while allowing them to secrete beneficial proteins locally. This enhances treatment stability and reduces potential side effects, addressing longstanding challenges in cell-based therapies for nervous system conditions.

This innovative strategy opens new avenues for treating neurodegenerative diseases by harnessing encapsulated cell therapy to actively transform inflammation, which plays a crucial role in disease progression. Co-author Omid Veiseh emphasized the significance of shielding therapeutic cells from immune rejection, bringing cell therapy closer to practical application for brain disorders.

The study was a collaborative effort involving researchers such as Samira Aghlara-Fotovat, Maria Montalvo-Parra, Sajedeh Nasr Esfahani, and others, marking a significant step forward in neuroregenerative medicine. The progress made with AstroCapsules suggests a promising future for minimally invasive, targeted treatments for brain inflammation and neurodegenerative conditions.