Core-shell microspheres by dispersion polymerization as promising delivery systems for proteins

Area of Science:

• Polymer Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Core-shell microspheres offer unique properties for drug and protein delivery.
• Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) is a versatile polymer for microsphere fabrication.
• Surface functionalization is crucial for targeted interactions with biological molecules.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize monodisperse poly(methyl methacrylate) core-shell microspheres via dispersion polymerization.
• To functionalize the microsphere surface for interaction with basic proteins.
• To evaluate the potential of these microspheres as delivery systems for protein-based vaccines.

Main Methods:

• Dispersion polymerization of methyl methacrylate.
• Optimization of initiator concentration, steric stabilizer amount, and medium solvency power.
• Preparation of fluorescent microspheres for biodistribution studies.
• In vitro and in vivo cellular uptake studies.

Main Results:

• Monodisperse PMMA core-shell microspheres (up to 600 nm) were successfully prepared.
• The microsphere shell contains carboxylic groups enabling interaction with basic proteins like trypsin.
• Adsorption of proteins was driven by the density of carboxylic groups on the shell.
• Fluorescent microspheres demonstrated efficient cellular uptake both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions:

• Optimized dispersion polymerization yields functional PMMA core-shell microspheres.
• The carboxylic acid-functionalized shell facilitates protein adsorption.
• These microspheres are effective cellular delivery vehicles.
• The developed microspheres show significant potential for novel protein-based vaccine development.