In a breakthrough, Indian scientists develop unique method to treat brain tuberculosis

In a remarkable achievement, Indian scientists have developed an effective treatment method to tackle tuberculosis.

Scientists at Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali have developed a nose to brain drug delivery method to deliver TB medicines directly to the brain through the nose. This method will be effective in treating Central Nervous System Tuberculosis (CNS-TB), one of the most dangerous forms of TB. Usually in such cases, the drug does not reach the brain because of a protective barrier known as the blood-brain barrier (BBB).

Central Nervous System Tuberculosis (CNS TB) is a severe form of tuberculosis that affects the brain and spinal cord. It commonly manifests as tuberculous meningitis, where the protective membranes around the brain become inflamed, leading to headaches, fever, neck stiffness, and neurological symptoms.

CNS TB can also cause tuberculomas, which are masses that develop in the brain, causing seizures or focal neurological deficits. Early diagnosis through cerebrospinal fluid analysis and imaging is crucial for effective treatment. If left untreated, CNS TB can lead to long-term complications like paralysis or death.

The scientists team led by Rahul Kumar Verma along with Krishna Jadhav, Agrim Jhilta, Raghuraj Singh, Eupa Ray, Vimal Kumar, Awadh Yadav and Amit Kumar Singh developed chitosan nano-aggregates, tiny clusters of nanoparticles made from chitosan, a biocompatible and biodegradable material. These tiny particles, known as nanoparticles, were then made into slightly larger clusters called nano-aggregates, designed for easy nasal delivery. They can hold TB drugs like isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF).

As per an official statement, "by delivering the drug through the nasal route, the nano-aggregates can transport the drugs directly into the brain, significantly improving drug bioavailability at the infection site. Besides, chitosan is known for its mucoadhesive properties, and sticks to the nasal mucosa, which helps the nano-aggregates stay in place and prolongs the time they can release the drug, enhancing its therapeutic effectiveness."

The findings have been published in the journal Nanoscale (Royal Society of Chemistry). "It could be applied to treat other brain infections, neurodegenerative diseases (like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s), brain tumours, and epilepsy by enabling efficient drug delivery to the brain," the statement adds.