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Development of CoQ10-Enhanced Nanoparticles for Targeted Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease in Diabetes
Location: 18
Mentor: Dr. Shanta Dhar
Atherosclerosis, the primary driver behind coronary artery disease (CAD), remains the leading cause of death in the United States. CAD from atherosclerosis contributes to about 25% of strokes, and despite advancements in lipid-lowering medications and revascularization, atherosclerosis accounts for approximately one-third of U.S. deaths, highlighting the urgent need for alternative treatments. Although current strategies lower cardiovascular mortality and cardiovascular disease risks in diabetic patients, they do not halt disease progression. In the U.S., diabetes serves as the primary cause of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). In type 1 diabetes, early complications and poor early glycemic control often contribute to higher mortality rates and DKD, with cardiovascular disease becoming a critical factor later in life. Effective therapeutic approaches for these patients must address both glycemia and cardiovascular disease risk factors early. In our study, we propose that an orally deliverable therapeutic nanoparticle (NP) capable of lowering lipids and glucose levels, while simultaneously mitigating oxidative stress at the mitochondrial level. Our strategy aims to reduce cardiovascular risk and prevent the progression of DKD. Incorporation of the antioxidant coenzyme Q10 helps address oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction both at plaque sites and in the kidney. This study proposes a novel all-in-one T1T2-CoQ10-NP therapeutic option, that mimics the function of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), for diabetic patients to prevent cardiovascular risk factors such as hypercholesterolemia and therefore, DKD.
