Polyphenylalanine-Baicalein Nanomicelles Reduce Nerve Cell Apoptosis and Inflammation to Enhance Neuroprotection and Poststroke Rehabilitation

Cerebral ischemic stroke, neuronal death, and inflammation bring difficulties in neuroprotection and rehabilitation. In this study, we developed and designed the ability of natural lactoferrin-polyethylene glycol-polyphenylalanine-baicalein nanomicelles (LF-PEG-PPhe-Bai) to target and reduce these pathological processes, such as neurological damage and cognitive impairment in the stages of poststroke. Nanomicelles made from biocompatible materials have improved bioavailability and targeted distribution to afflicted brain areas. The results showed that LF-PEG-PPhe-Bai greatly improved the antioxidation, antiapoptosis, and anti-inflammation activity in vitro. Meanwhile, LF-PEG-PPhe-Bai improved the behavioral and cognitive impairment of 2-VO model mice, protected nerve cells in the hippocampus, and reduced inflammation at the brain injury site in vivo. In conclusion, LF-PEG-PPhe-Bai nanomicelles are employed for enhancing neuroprotection and poststroke rehabilitation. The development of this technology might provide a new technique for neural repair after ischemia in the future.