Commonly used methods for imaging atherosclerotic plaques include intravascular ultrasound, coronary angiography, computed tomography angiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, these methods are invasive or have limitations in resolution and the ability to deliver targeted therapies.

There are currently no medications or treatments that can specifically target atherosclerotic plaques, to significantly reduce plaque burden or reverse atherosclerosis. Patients with high CVD risk are generally prescribed medications that can stabilise plaques, including statins that lower cholesterol levels, anti-platelet agents such as aspirin to reduce risk of clots forming at the site of plaques, while ace inhibitors and beta-blockers are used to manage high blood pressure.

Now, researchers led by Assistant Professor Wang Jiong-Wei from the Department of Surgery, Nanomedicine Translational Research Program at NUS Medicine, and Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI) have developed a groundbreaking nanoparticle technology that offers an effective solution to diagnose and treat atherosclerosis, in a non-invasive manner.

In preclinical models, the team’s newly developed nanoparticle can diagnose atherosclerosis, target atherosclerotic plaques, and deliver therapeutic agents directly to inhibit the progression of atherosclerosis. Composed of nanoscale coordination polymers (NCP) and a pH-responsive linker, the nanoparticles work by breaking down specifically in the acidic environment of atherosclerotic plaques, releasing gadolinium—a contrast agent for MRI—for real-time imaging of plaque severity while simultaneously delivering Simvastatin, a water-insoluble drug with anti-inflammatory properties and anti-ROS (reactive oxygen species) properties that contribute to plaque stabilisation and treatment, reducing the risk of cardiovascular events. Compared to the systemic delivery of similar doses of Simvastatin, the nanoparticles can deliver 1,000 times more of the drug to the plaques, thereby enhancing the therapeutic efficacy while minimising systemic side effects.

Published in the journal Small, this innovative theranostic approach offers a promising alternative to current medical practices for the management of atherosclerosis. This proof-of-concept study demonstrates significant potential for the innovative approach. The team is looking to further validate their research before they move forward to clinical trials.

“Overall, our nanoparticles are a significant advancement that could pave the way for a new era of cardiovascular care,” said Asst Prof Wang, Principal Investigator, Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Medicine.

The multidisciplinary study was conducted in collaboration with Associate Professor James Kah from the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Professor Liu Bin from the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering under the College of Design and Engineering at NUS, and Professor Liu Xiaogang from the Department of Chemistry at the NUS Faculty of Science.