PEGylated Flavonoid Aspasomes as a Brain-Targeted Nano-Vesicular Platform for Enhanced Neuroprotection in Stress-Induced Cognitive Dysfunction

May 2026 in “ AAPS PharmSciTech ”

Amal Fathy Aladoly, Maha M. Amin, Heba Nasr Shalaby, Ahmed F. Mohamed, Mohamed Y. Zakaria

Studysummary This study found that PEGylated LUT-Aspasomes significantly improved neuroprotective effects in stressed rats, enhancing spatial memory, reducing depressive-like behavior, and preserving hippocampal architecture better than free luteolin. Additionally, it increased brain delivery and stability, suggesting potential for treating stress-related neurobehavioral disorders.

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The study investigates PEGylated flavonoid Aspasomes as a brain-targeted nano-vesicular platform for neuroprotection in stress-induced cognitive dysfunction. The optimized formulation (F14) demonstrated high entrapment efficiency, nanosized vesicles, and enhanced drug release and nasal permeation compared to free luteolin (LUT). In chronic unpredictable stress rats, F14 significantly improved spatial memory and reduced depressive-like behavior more effectively than free LUT. Biochemical analysis showed superior reductions in hippocampal acetylcholinesterase activity and serum corticosterone, along with increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels. Histopathological examination confirmed preserved hippocampal architecture in treated rats. These findings suggest that PEGylated LUT-Aspasomes enhance stability, brain delivery, and neuroprotective efficacy, offering a promising approach for managing stress-related neurobehavioral disorders.

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