Monoolein-based cubosomes affect lipid profile in HeLa cells

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology and Drug Delivery
• Cell Biology
• Lipidomics

Background:

• Monoolein-based cubosomes show potential as theranostic nanocarriers.
• Limited research exists on the effects of these nanoparticles on cellular lipid profiles.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for safe and effective drug delivery applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of monoolein-based cubosomes (MO/PF108) on the lipid profile of human carcinoma HeLa cells.
• To analyze changes in fatty acids, phospholipids, cholesterol, and triacylglycerols after short-term cubosome exposure.
• To assess the influence of these nanocarriers on intracellular membranes and lipid droplet formation.

Main Methods:

• Human carcinoma HeLa cells were treated with monoolein-based cubosomes stabilized by Pluronic F108 (MO/PF108) at a non-cytotoxic concentration.
• Lipidomic analysis was performed using Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with DAD and ELSD detection.
• Intracellular membrane and lipid droplet content were evaluated using Nile red staining.

Main Results:

• Treatment with MO/PF108 cubosomes significantly increased the level of oleic acid (18:1 n-9) in HeLa cells.
• Cubosome uptake led to oleic acid incorporation into phospholipids and triacylglycerols, without affecting free cholesterol or cholesteryl oleate.
• Nile red staining revealed increased intracellular membranes and a significant accumulation of cytoplasmic lipid droplets.

Conclusions:

• Monoolein-based cubosomes modulate the lipid composition of HeLa cells, particularly influencing oleic acid metabolism.
• These nanocarriers promote the synthesis of intracellular membranes and the accumulation of lipid droplets.
• The study provides insights into the cellular response to cubosome-based nanocarriers, relevant for theranostic applications.