IISc develops Nanozyme to prevent Abnormal Blood Clotting

Why in the News?

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have created an artificial metal-based nanozyme that can help prevent dangerous blood clotting, especially in conditions like pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) and COVID-19.

What is Blood Clotting?

• About: When we get a cut or injury, our body quickly stops the bleeding by forming a blood clot. This is done by special blood cells called platelets that stick together and seal the wound.
• Control mechanism: This natural process is called blood clotting or haemostasis and is controlled by certain chemicals in our body like collagen and thrombin.
• Post covid issues: But in some illnesses like pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) or COVID-19, the body sends too many signals to make clots, even when there is no injury.
• Oxidative Stress: This creates a problem called oxidative stress, where harmful molecules called Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) build up in the blood. These ROS molecules over-activate the platelets, causing them to make too many clots inside blood vessels.
• Hazards: This can block blood flow, leading to serious health issues like heart attacks, strokes, or lung problems. This condition is called thrombosis, and it can be life-threatening.

Vanadium-Based Nanozyme and Its Features:

• Purpose and Design: Scientists at IISc developed vanadium-based nanozymes to mimic natural antioxidant enzymes that reduce ROS levels.
• How they work: The nanozymes control oxidative stress by copying glutathione peroxidase, an enzyme that removes ROS and protects platelets.
• Optimal Structure: Spherical-shaped vanadium pentoxide (V₂O₅) nanozymes were found to be the most effective.
• Test Results in Mice: These nanozymes reduced blood clots and improved survival in PTE-affected mice with no toxicity signs over five days.
• Next Steps: Scientists plan to test the nanozyme in ischemic stroke and are optimistic about human clinical trials after promising lab results with human platelets.