NEUROPROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF GOLD NANOPARTICLES BIOFUNCTIONALIZED WITH GLUTATHIONE IN OXYGEN AND GLUCOSE DEPRIVATION MODEL

Gold-based nanomaterials, such as nanoparticles (AuNP), have many characteristics that make them important for the field of nanomedicine. AuNPs have garnered attention as potential neuroprotective agents in animal models of brain diseases, including ischemic stroke, which is characterized by the occlusion or blockage of a blood vessel. Stroke is the second leading cause of death and disability in the world, however, treatment is very limited and consists of palliative methods. Studies have already shown a decrease in infarct volume, functional recovery, and attenuation of oxidative stress and inflammation in animals treated with AuNPs and submitted to ischemia. In addition to acting as a treatment, these nanomaterials also act as nanocarriers, increasing the biodistribution and effectiveness of substances that are rapidly degraded by the body, such as glutathione (GSH). GSH is the peptide in the greatest amount in the body and is a key element in redox balance.