Researchers from the Advanced Institute of Convergence Technology (AICT) and Seoul National University have confirmed the possibility of using graphene and its derivatives to treat childhood dementia, called the Niemann-pick type C1 (NPC).

In the study, the joint research team proved that grapheme quantum dots could pass through the blood-brain barrier between the human brain and blood vessels and treat damaged brain cells through abdominal administration without directly injecting it into the brain. They also found graphene quantum dots inhibiting intracellular accumulation of cholesterol by binding with it, showing a therapeutic effect in NPC.

NPC, rare dementia mostly affecting children, manifests the accumulation of cholesterol and lipids in cells caused by mutated NPC cholesterol transporter. In most cases, newborns show NPC symptoms along with jaundice and develop progressive neurodegenerative symptoms, including lack of muscle control and memory loss, while they grow up.

Researchers have been developing NPC treatments, but no certain therapy has been introduced yet.

“By transferring patented technology to the bio-venture company, Biographene, we plan to conduct clinical trials with the U.S. National Institute of Health to check safety and efficacy profile and apply for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s fast track approval,” said Professor Hong Byung-hee at AICT.

The study results were selected as the cover paper of Nano Letters, a well-known international academic journal published by the American Chemical Society, on Thursday, according to the research team.