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08:15
Membrane Remodeling of Giant Vesicles in Response to Localized Calcium Ion Gradients
Published on: July 16, 2018
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pH-Responsive Polyion Complex Vesicle with Polyphosphobetaine Shells.
Yuki Ohara1, Keita Nakai1, Sana Ahmed2
1Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering , University of Hyogo , 2167 Shosha , Himeji , Hyogo 671-2280 , Japan.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|June 27, 2018
Summary
pH-responsive polyion complex (PIC) vesicles were developed to improve drug delivery. These vesicles collapse in acidic environments, releasing cationic polymers that disrupt lysosome membranes for enhanced cellular drug release.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Endocytosis can trap bioactive molecules in lysosomes, hindering efficient drug release.
- Lysosomal acidity poses a challenge for drug delivery systems aiming for cytoplasmic release.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design pH-responsive polyion complex (PIC) vesicles for improved intracellular drug delivery.
- To engineer vesicles that can escape the lysosome and release encapsulated cargo.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of diblock copolymers with zwitterionic (PMPC) and charged blocks (PMAPTAC, PAaH) via RAFT polymerization.
- Formation of PIC vesicles from oppositely charged copolymers in basic conditions.
- Investigation of vesicle behavior under acidic conditions mimicking lysosomes.
Main Results:
- PIC vesicles demonstrated pH-responsiveness, collapsing under acidic conditions.
- Acidic conditions triggered the release of cationic polymer (P20M167) and encapsulated guest molecules.
- Released cationic polymer aided in disrupting lysosome membranes, facilitating cytoplasmic drug release.
Conclusions:
- Developed pH-responsive PIC vesicles offer a strategy for overcoming lysosomal drug sequestration.
- The designed system enhances the efficiency of intracellular drug delivery by promoting lysosome escape.
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