Platinum-coordinated graphitic carbon nitride nanosheet used for targeted inhibition of amyloid β-peptide aggregation

Amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) aggregation is a critical step in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Inhibition of Aβ production, dissolution of existing aggregates and clearance of Aβ represent valid therapeutic strategies against AD. Herein, a novel platinum(II)-coordinated graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) nanosheet (g-C3N4@Pt) has been designed to covalently bind to Aβ and modulate the peptide’s aggregation and toxicity. Furthermore, g-C3N4@Pt nanosheets possess high photocatalytic activity and can oxygenate Aβ upon visible light irradiation, remarkably attenuating both the aggregation potency and neurotoxicity of Aβ. Due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and its good biocompatibility, g-C3N4@Pt nanosheet is a promising inhibitor of Aβ aggregation. This study may serve as a model for the engineering of novel multifunctional nanomaterials used for the treatment of AD.