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Peptide-functionalized quantum dots for potential applications in the imaging and treatment of obesity

Ntevheleni Thovhogi1, Nicole Remaliah Samantha Sibuyi1, Martin Opiyo Onani2

  • 1Department of Science and Technology (DST)/Mintek Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Biolabels Unit, Department of Biotechnology.

International Journal of Nanomedicine
|May 8, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This study shows that peptide-functionalized quantum dots (QDs) can target prohibitin-expressing cells and accumulate in white adipose tissue (WAT) in obese rats. This nanotechnology offers a promising approach for targeted obesity treatment and real-time imaging.

Area of Science:

  • Nanomedicine
  • Biotechnology
  • Molecular Imaging

Background:

  • Obesity is a global epidemic with limited effective treatments.
  • Current obesity drugs have undesirable side effects, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
  • Nanotechnology offers potential for improved drug delivery and efficacy in obesity treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate peptide-functionalized quantum dots (QDs) for imaging prohibitin (PHB)-expressing cells.
  • To evaluate the potential of these nanocarriers for targeted delivery of antiobesity drugs.
  • To assess the in vitro and in vivo targeting capabilities of these nanocarriers in diet-induced obese rats.

Main Methods:

  • Cadmium-based QDs were functionalized with an adipose homing peptide (AHP).
  • In vitro studies used PHB-expressing and non-PHB-expressing cells exposed to QDs.
  • In vivo studies involved intravenous injection of QDs into lean and obese rats, with biodistribution analysis.

Main Results:

  • AHP-functionalized QDs selectively accumulated in PHB-expressing cells in vitro.
  • In vivo, QDs primarily accumulated in reticuloendothelial system organs, while AHP-QDs targeted white adipose tissues (WATs).

Conclusions:

  • AHP-functionalized QDs demonstrated successful and selective delivery to PHB-expressing cells and WAT vasculature.
  • This nanotechnology approach shows potential for dual targeted drug delivery and real-time molecular imaging of adipose tissue in obese patients.
Keywords:
adipose homing peptidedrug deliverynanotechnologyprohibitinwhite adipose tissue

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