Polyion complex vesicles (PICsomes) from strong copolyelectrolytes. Stability and in vitro studies.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biotechnology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Polymer vesicles offer alternatives to traditional polymersomes.
• Diblock copolyelectrolytes form polymer-induced complexes (PICsomes).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the stability and biocompatibility of PICsomes.
• To assess the potential of PICsomes as nanocontainers for biomedical use.

Main Methods:

• PICsomes were synthesized using oppositely charged zwitterionic-ionic copolymers.
• Stability was tested across various pH and temperatures.
• Biocompatibility was assessed using human skin fibroblasts (HSFs).
• Cellular uptake and intracellular localization were visualized using confocal microscopy.

Main Results:

• PICsomes exhibited high stability across a wide pH and temperature range.
• PICsomes maintained morphology in human serum.
• In vitro studies showed no cytotoxicity, proliferation inhibition, or adhesion issues with HSFs.
• Model dye-loaded PICsomes were efficiently internalized by cells and localized in endo/lysosomal compartments.

Conclusions:

• PICsomes demonstrate inherent stability and excellent in vitro biocompatibility.
• PICsomes are effectively internalized by cells, showing promise as nanocontainers.
• These polymer vesicles hold significant potential for drug delivery and other biomedical applications.