Ginkgo biloba extract-loaded PLGA microcapsules generated from microfluidics for Alzheimer's disease treatment

Boosting the birth rate of new neurons in the adult hippocampus is a possible treatment method for the management of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Recent studies have revealed that Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) can act as a neuroprotective agent to prevent memory loss in a variety of neurodegenerative illnesses. However, the low bioavailability and short half-life of active components in vivo limit their application. Here, we describe a class of microcapsules (MPs) for sustained GBE delivery that have gelatin methacrylate (GelMa) cores and poly(L-lactideco-glycolide) (PLGA) shells. The encapsulated GBE was slowly released from the solidified MPs during degradation of the polymer. In addition, the MPs showed good biocompatibility in cell experiments. When GelMaPLGA MPs containing GBE were applied to APP/PS1 mice, amyloid deposition in the mouse brain was reduced, and cognitive impairment was improved. These results indicate that GBE-encapsulated MPs have potential clinical value in treating AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.