Neuroprotective Potential of Dimethyl Fumarate-loaded Polymeric Nanoparticles against Multiple Sclerosis

The aim of the present study was to access the potential of dimethyl fumarate-loaded chitosan polymeric nanoparticles for the management of multiple sclerosis. Dimethyl fumarate-loaded chitosan nanoparticles were prepared by polyelectrolyte complex coaservation technique. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized and found to have an average particle size of 324 nm, zeta potential of -34.85 mV and a poly dispersity index of 0.367. The entrapment efficiency was found to be 65.36 % and the drug loading was 28 %. The formulation's in vitro drug release profile and stability parameters were also evaluated. Cumulative percent drug release was found to be 84 % up to 24 hours and the formulation was found to be stable at 28 degrees for 90 days. In vitro neuroprotective effect of the nanoformulation was evaluated using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay on human neuroblast SH-SY5Y cells and the treated cells showed improved cell viability under hydrogen peroxide-induced cell apoptosis. In vivo cuprizone model for multiple sclerosis in rodents also confirmed these findings by showing a significant increase in locomotion score.