Researchers describe nanomaterials that could help limit damage due to inflammation

Researchers from Duke University (NC, USA) have described self-assembling nanomaterials that incorporate TNF fragments and an engineered component of C3dg. In mouse models of inflammation, the materials induced therapeutic, anti-inflammatory responses. Overproduction of cytokines – key inflammatory signaling proteins – can be a hallmark of various inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis. TNF is one of the most common and important proinflammatory cytokines, implicated in many of these conditions. Monoclonal antibodies against inflammatory cytokines, including TNF, represent some of the best current treatment approaches for inflammatory conditions; these are designed to inhibit the activity of the cytokines and, thus,...