Nano-ERASER Reverses Alzheimer-Like Damage in Mice After Two Injections

Scientists at the University of South Carolina reported that an injectable polymer nanogel—dubbed Nano-ERASER—can degrade the protein PTBP1 in brain astrocytes, prompting these support cells to convert into functional neurons. The work, published in *Cell Biomaterials* (2026), builds on a 2017 Trim-Away technique that uses antibodies to target specific proteins. In the new version, the antibodies are delivered via a nanoparticle-filled gel, allowing systemic injection.

ScienceAlert

In cultured brain organoids, Nano-ERASER lowered PTBP1 levels and induced astrocyte-to-neuron transdifferentiation, producing electrically active cells that formed network connections on microelectrode arrays. When the approach was applied to mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease, two injections were sufficient to trigger measurable changes. Over several weeks, treated mice regained the ability to build nests—a behavioral analog of daily-task deficits in humans—and navigated water-maze tests more efficiently than untreated controls. Post-mortem analysis showed higher neuronal density and reductions in inflammatory markers and pathogenic protein aggregates. The researchers note that earlier attempts to regenerate neurons by targeting PTBP1 improved Parkinson’s-type symptoms in mice but later studies failed to replicate those results; the current data appear to reaffirm the original concept.

ScienceAlert

Peisheng Xu, professor of pharmaceutics and corresponding author, emphasized that the newly formed neurons “can become mature and survive,” suggesting a durable restoration of synaptic architecture. The team plans extended studies in mice and eventual trials in primates before considering clinical translation. Xu cautioned that success in rodents does not guarantee efficacy in humans, but he expressed optimism that the method could eventually offer hope for Alzheimer’s patients.

ScienceAlert

• “After just two injections, these mice became smarter,” — Peisheng Xu

ScienceAlert