Platinum-coordinated graphitic carbon nitride nanosheet used for targeted inhibition of amyloid β-peptide aggregation

Amyloid beta-peptide (A beta) aggregation is a critical step in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Inhibition of A beta production, dissolution of existing aggregates and clearance of A beta represent valid therapeutic strategies against AD. Herein, a novel platinum(II)-coordinated graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) nanosheet (g-C3N4@Pt) has been designed to covalently bind to A beta and modulate the peptide's aggregation and toxicity. Furthermore, g-C3N4@Pt nanosheets possess high photocatalytic activity and can oxygenate A beta upon visible light irradiation, remarkably attenuating both the aggregation potency and neurotoxicity of A beta. Due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and its good biocompatibility, g-C3N4@Pt nanosheet is a promising inhibitor of A beta aggregation. This study may serve as a model for the engineering of novel multifunctional nanomaterials used for the treatment of AD.