Cationic nanoemulsions as potential carriers for intracellular delivery

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Nanomedicine
• Drug Delivery

Background:

• Cytosolic delivery of therapeutic agents is crucial for treating genetic disorders, infectious diseases, and cancer.
• Developing effective delivery systems is essential for improving treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and characterize a stable cationic nanoemulsion for efficient cytosolic delivery.
• To evaluate the nanoemulsion's potential for DNA condensation and cellular uptake.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of cationic nanoemulsions using Capmul MCM, didodecyldimethylammonium bromide (DDAB), phospholipid, Poloxamer 188, and glycerol.
• Assessment of particle size, charge, and stability post-steam sterilization.
• Evaluation of DNA condensation capabilities and cellular uptake in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cell lines using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry.

Main Results:

• A stable cationic nanoemulsion was successfully fabricated with particle sizes of 81.6 ± 3.56 nm (pre-sterilization) and 137.1 ± 1.57 nm (post-sterilization).
• The nanoemulsion demonstrated significant DNA condensation potential across various ratios.
• Excellent cellular uptake was observed in HEK cell lines, indicating efficient delivery.

Conclusions:

• A colloidally stable cationic nanoemulsion was developed with good DNA condensation ability.
• The nanoemulsion facilitates efficient cytosolic delivery, showing potential for in vivo therapeutic applications.