Tiny Antioxidant Particles May Aid in Treatment of Arthritis

Atom-sized antioxidant particles that appear to have potent anti-inflammatory properties may be useful in the treatment of certain age-related disorders such as arthritis and other joint problems, according to University of Central Florida researchers.

Such technology, known as nanotechnology, could revolutionize modern medicine in the future, the researchers report.

By combining their expertise in biomolecular science and engineering, researchers Beverly Rzigalinski and Sudipta Seal developed what they are calling a regenerative anti-oxidant nanoparticle.

After introducing the miniaturized particles to the brain cells of rats, the researchers found that the cells lived three to four times longer than usual and were signaling or "talking" to each other in the same manner as more youthful cells.

"This shows there is a potential not just to extend the life span but to preserve function," observed Rzigalinski.

Initial tests show that the nanoparticle antioxidants regenerate once they penetrate the cell -- meaning one dose could conceivably continue its therapeutic effects indefinitely.

The end result, according to Rzigalinski and Seal, is that people could live longer and with fewer age-related health problems. They will both receive $1.4 million from the National Institutes of Health, National Institute to continue their research.

Other sources: University of Central Florida