Exploiting the “protein corona effect” for targeted drug and gene delivery

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When administered in vivo lipid nanoparticles (NPs) are immediately covered by a rich protein layer, known as “protein corona” that changes the size, aggregation state, and interfacial properties of the NP, giving it a biological identity that is distinct from its original synthetic identity. We have applied nanoliquid-cromatography mass spectroscopy (NanoLC-MS/MS) to identify the proteins associated with the corona of several NP formulations after incubation with human plasma. Lipid NPs used in the present study were made of those lipid species that are frequently used for drug/gene delivery purposes such as cationic lipids DOTAP and DC-Chol and the neutral lipids DOPE and Cholesterol. Our NanoLC-MS/MS revealed that: (i) cationic charge carried by indifferently DOTAP or DC-Chol makes the NP surface attractive for fibrinogen, prothrombin, vitamin K and vitronectin; (ii) DOPE specifically promotes the adsorption of apolipoproteins and serum albumin; (iii) DC-Chol and cholesterol induces the preferential binding of immunoglobulins and complement proteins. To exploit the “protein corona effect for targeted drug delivery” cellular uptake experiments have been performed using cell lines that over-express protein receptors. The results of this study will be useful for design of lipid nanoparticles with optimal circulation profile and targeting ability.

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Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2013: Bio Sensors, Instruments, Medical, Environment and Energy (Volume 3)
Published: May 12, 2013
Pages: 247 - 250
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Medical & Biotech
Topics: Biomaterials, Materials for Drug & Gene Delivery
ISBN: 978-1-4822-0586-2