Researchers tested an experimental form of niclosamide – a drug against intestinal parasites – on mice with endometriosis-like lesions. After a single injection, the drug, delivered to target immune cells by a special molecular carrier, reduced the number and size of lesions as well as the animals’ increased pain sensitivity. The results of the study, published in the journal Advanced Healthcare Materials, were reported by ScienceAlert. Endometriosis is a chronic disease in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It can cause inflammation, severe pelvic pain, painful menstruation, and fertility problems. The scientists from Washington State University, the University of Michigan, and the University of Florida focused on macrophages – immune cells that can support lesion development through inflammatory signals and growth factors. Some of these cells have the folate receptor beta, or FRβ, on their surface. The team created a dendrimer – a small branched molecular structure. They attached folic acid, which can bind to FRβ, as well as niclosamide. This carrier is intended to improve the drug’s solubility in water and deliver it to specific cells. Niclosamide dissolves poorly in water and enters the bloodstream in limited amounts after oral administration. More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
Source: UA
