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Harvesting Murine Alveolar Macrophages and Evaluating Cellular Activation Induced by Polyanhydride Nanoparticles
Published on: June 8, 2012
Mannose-functionalized solid lipid nanoparticles are effective in targeting alveolar macrophages
Ana Costa1, Bruno Sarmento2, Vítor Seabra3
1i3S, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB, Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-223 Porto, Portugal.
Mannose-functionalized nanoparticles efficiently target alveolar macrophages for tuberculosis drug delivery. This approach reduces drug toxicity and enhances cellular uptake, offering a promising platform for anti-infective therapies.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Pharmacology
- Immunology
Background:
- Mannose receptors on alveolar macrophages are key targets for drug delivery.
- Targeted delivery of anti-tuberculosis agents can improve efficacy and reduce side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate mannose-functionalized solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) for targeted delivery of isoniazid (Isn) to alveolar macrophages.
- To assess the safety, cellular uptake, and targeting efficiency of these M-SLN.
Main Methods:
- Isoniazid-loaded SLN were produced using a double emulsion technique and surface-functionalized with mannose.
- Characterization included size, charge, association efficiency, and FTIR confirmation of mannosylation.
- Cytotoxicity was evaluated on NCI-H441 and dTHP-1 cell lines.
- Cellular uptake studies were performed on macrophage-like cells, assessing receptor-dependent internalization.
Main Results:
- Mannose-functionalized SLN (M-SLN) were successfully produced with an average size of ~500 nm and positive charge.
- M-SLN showed reduced cytotoxicity compared to free isoniazid and enhanced cellular uptake by dTHP-1 cells.
- Uptake of M-SLN was significantly reduced by mannose pre-incubation, confirming mannose receptor-mediated internalization.
Conclusions:
- Mannose-functionalized SLN represent a viable nanocarrier system for targeted delivery of anti-tuberculosis drugs to alveolar macrophages.
- This targeted approach holds potential for improving the treatment of tuberculosis by enhancing drug efficacy and minimizing systemic toxicity.

