Artificial Organelles Target Toxic Compounds

Researchers at the University of Basel (Switzerland) have successfully developed artificial organelles that are able to support the reduction of toxic oxygen compounds. This opens up new ways in the development of novel drugs that can influence pathological states directly inside the cell. Cornelia Palivan and colleagues have produced artificial peroxisomes that mimic the natural organelle. The cell organelle is based on polymeric nanocapsules, in which two types of enzymes are encapsulated; these enzymes are able to transform free oxygen radicals into water and oxygen.  The study authors submit that: “Our artificial peroxisome combats oxidative stress in cells, a factor in various pathologies (e.g., arthritis, Parkinson’s, cancer, AIDS), and offers a versatile strategy to develop other “cell implants” for cell dysfunction.”