IMPACT · IMproved Plasminogen Activator based on Cerium oxide nanoparticles for Thrombolysis in ischemic Stroke

Ischemic stroke is the second cause of death worldwide. Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) is the only approved therapeutic agent. However, stroke patients often suffer from hemorrhages caused by oxidative stress, leading to high immobility rates. The project conducted at Université Paris Cité is at the cross-section of material science and nanomedicine. It aims to develop a nanomedicine for clot targeting, dissolution, and antioxidant therapy to treat ischemic stroke against oxidative stress. Combining the robust antioxidant activity of the cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeNPs) with the clinical-proven rtPA as a delivery vector, the novel nanomedicine will find its potential application for the care of stroke patients and beyond. CeNPs will be optimized to achieve the maximum antioxidant activity. It will be assembled with polymers and rtPA to preserve circulation time and delivery efficiency. The nanoassembly will be evaluated against oxidative stress and clot dissolution efficiency. The project combines the Researcher's experiences in developing advanced nanomaterials and the hosts' expertise in translating nanomaterials from synthesis to preclinical studies. The project targets treating non-communicable diseases, relevant to the Health pillar of the Horizon Europe programme and the emphasis on developing Advanced Materials by European Commission. It shows a great impact in helping people suffering from the high risks of already approved medication. The project will enable the Researcher to acquire professional maturity related to nanomedicine development. The dissemination of results producing multiple publications in peer-reviewed journals, talks at scientific meetings, and outreach to the general public about the development of the novel antioxidant-related stroke treatment is very probable with the completion of this project. It also creates a potential platform for the scaling process of nanomedicine through collaboration with industrial partners.