A Versatile Method to Prepare Protein Nanoclusters for Drug Delivery
Yupeng Wang1,2, Lesan Yan3, Shasha He1,2
1State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130022, P. R. China.
Macromolecular Bioscience
|December 23, 2017
Summary
Researchers developed a novel protein nanocluster drug delivery system using self-aggregation. This stable, pH-responsive system offers a versatile platform for targeted cancer therapy, enhancing nanomedicine applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanomedicine
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Natural biomaterials like peptides and proteins offer advantages for nanomedicine.
- Protein denaturation and complex preparation hinder protein-based nanocarrier applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel, simplified method for preparing stable protein nanocluster drug delivery systems.
- To investigate the drug loading, release, and cellular uptake capabilities of these nanoclusters.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the self-aggregation property of proteins at their isoelectric point.
- Employed a modified natural polysaccharide as a crosslinking agent.
- Prepared hemoglobin-based, drug-loaded nanoclusters.
Main Results:
- Achieved crosslinked protein nanoclusters with excellent stability and autofluorescence.
- Demonstrated pH-responsive drug release.
- Successfully delivered drugs into cancer cells.
- Confirmed the universal applicability of the method across various proteins.
Conclusions:
- The developed method provides a facile and versatile approach for creating stable protein nanoclusters for drug delivery.
- These nanoclusters show promise for targeted cancer therapy due to their responsive release and cellular uptake.
- The approach overcomes limitations of traditional protein-based nanocarrier preparation.
