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DODAB:monoolein liposomes containing Candida albicans cell wall surface proteins: a novel adjuvant and delivery
Catarina Carneiro1, Alexandra Correia2, Tony Collins1
1Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA), Department of Biology, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.
Abstract:
We describe the preparation and characterization of DODAB:MO-based liposomes and demonstrate their adjuvant potential and use in antigen delivery. Liposomes loaded with Candida albicans proteins assembled as stable negatively charged spherical nanoparticles with a mean size of 280 nm. High adsorption efficiency (91.0 ± 9.0%) is attained with high lipid concentrations. The nanoparticles were non-toxic, avidly taken up by macrophage cells and accumulated in membrane rich regions with an internalization time of 20 min. Immunized mice displayed strong humoral and cell-mediated immune responses, producing antibodies (IgGs) against specific cell wall proteins, Cht3p and Xog1p. DODAB:MO-based liposomes loaded with C. albicans proteins have an excellent immunogenic potential and can be explored for the development of an immunoprotective strategy against Candida infections.
Insights
Researchers developed DODAB:MO liposomes to deliver Candida albicans proteins, showing they are non-toxic, readily absorbed by immune cells, and effectively stimulate immune responses in mice for potential anti-Candida strategies.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Immunology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Candida albicans infections pose a significant health threat, necessitating novel immunoprotective strategies.
- Liposomes are versatile nanocarriers with potential for vaccine development and drug delivery.
- Developing effective antigen delivery systems is crucial for eliciting robust immune responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prepare and characterize DODAB:MO-based liposomes for antigen delivery.
- To evaluate the adjuvant potential of these liposomes loaded with Candida albicans proteins.
- To assess the immunogenicity and efficacy of the liposomal formulation in a preclinical model.
Main Methods:
- Preparation and characterization of DODAB:MO-based liposomes loaded with Candida albicans proteins.
- Assessment of liposome size, charge, and adsorption efficiency.
- In vitro studies on macrophage uptake and cellular localization.
- In vivo immunization of mice and evaluation of humoral and cell-mediated immune responses.
Main Results:
- DODAB:MO liposomes formed stable, negatively charged nanoparticles (280 nm) with high protein adsorption efficiency (91.0 ± 9.0%).
- Nanoparticles exhibited non-toxicity and rapid uptake by macrophages, accumulating in membrane-rich regions within 20 minutes.
- Immunized mice showed significant humoral (IgG) and cell-mediated immunity against specific C. albicans proteins (Cht3p, Xog1p).
Conclusions:
- DODAB:MO-based liposomes are effective carriers for Candida albicans antigens.
- The liposomal formulation demonstrates strong adjuvant potential, inducing protective immune responses.
- This approach offers a promising strategy for developing vaccines against Candida infections.
