NanoBrain: Targeted delivery of therapeutics to the brain – Leibniz ScienceCampus Mainz

Globally, an estimated five percent of the adult population suffer from depression. In addition to the acute mental limitations of depressive disorders, they can also have a negative impact on physical health as well, for example, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The health-economic consequences associated with such conditions pose significant challenges, particularly in current times of crisis. However, the development of novel therapeutic approaches is complicated by challenges such as unexplored molecular mechanisms in the brain and overcoming the so-called blood-brain barrier.

This is precisely where the Leibniz ScienceCampus "Targeted delivery of therapeutics to the brain (NanoBrain)" comes into play: The goal is to develop conceptually new, innovative, and highly specific approaches for the prevention and treatment of central nervous system disorders. In pursuit of this goal, specific questions are at the forefront of research activities: Which mechanisms in the brain are responsible for depressive disorders and are suitable to be targeted? Can these mechanisms be targeted by mRNA-based therapies? How can novel therapeutics be successfully delivered to the brain in a targeted manner? Is it possible for them to act only in selected brain regions, thereby reducing side effects?