2026 CONVENTION
Neutrophil-like mitochondria enable blood–brain barrier transmigration and neuroprotection
Mitochondrial transplantation is a promising strategy for treating neurological disorders associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, but its application is limited by the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Here, we developed neutrophil-like mitochondria (nePM@Mito) by coating isolated mitochondria with neutrophil plasma membranes to enhance CNS delivery. Neutrophil-derived adhesion molecules promote interactions with brain endothelial cells and facilitate BBB transmigration via endothelial exocytosis. In a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease, intravenously administered nePM@Mito efficiently accumulated in the CNS and reduced oxidative stress. Mitochondrial delivery restored mitochondrial function and increased tyrosine hydroxylase expression in substantia nigra dopaminergic neurons, leading to increased dopamine levels and improved motor function. Importantly, neutrophil membrane functionalization conferred CNS-homing ability while preserving mitochondrial activity. These findings establish nePM@Mito as a biomimetic mitochondrial delivery platform for overcoming the BBB and treating neurodegenerative diseases associated with mitochondrial dysfunction.