Surface modified polymeric nanoparticles for immunisation against equine strangles

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Vaccine Technology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Particulate vaccine development requires understanding physicochemical and biological properties.
• Surface modification of nanoparticles is crucial for effective antigen delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize stable, surface-modified poly(lactic acid) (PLA) nanoparticles.
• To investigate the adsorption of Streptococcus equi enzymatic extract onto PLA nanoparticles modified with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), alginate (ALG), and glycolchitosan (GCS).

Main Methods:

• Nanoparticle formulation using PLA with PVA, ALG, or GCS surface modification.
• Adsorption efficiency studies of S. equi proteins onto nanoparticles.
• Physicochemical characterization including adsorption kinetics and desorption profiles.
• Analysis of protein adsorption equilibrium using Freundlich model.

Main Results:

• High adsorption efficiency (75-85%) achieved within 1 hour for all formulations.
• No protein degradation observed during formulation.
• Freundlich-type adsorption equilibrium confirmed with high regression coefficients (r² > 0.98).
• Sustained protein release observed after an initial burst release; GCS modification showed prolonged release (20% at 30 days).

Conclusions:

• Adsorption is a viable method for producing S. equi antigen carriers.
• Surface-modified PLA nanoparticles demonstrate potential for effective vaccine delivery.
• Glycolchitosan modification enhances sustained antigen release for improved vaccine efficacy.