Lipid nanoparticles biocompatibility and cellular uptake in a 3D human lung model

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Pharmacology
• Pulmonary Medicine

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) treatment requires effective drug delivery to infected lung areas.
• Nanoparticles offer potential for targeted drug delivery, but their interaction with lung tissues needs thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and evaluate nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) for enhanced drug delivery to tuberculosis-infected lung regions.
• To assess the uptake and biocompatibility of NLCs and mannosylated-NLCs in a 3D human lung model, targeting macrophage mannose receptors.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and characterization of NLCs and mannosylated-NLCs.
• Evaluation of nanoparticle size (170-202 nm) and morphology for lung deposition.
• Biocompatibility testing in a 3D human lung model, including assessment of cell membrane integrity and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion (IL-1β, IL-8, TNF-α).
• Analysis of nanoparticle distribution within lung tissue, specifically in macrophages and epithelial cells.

Main Results:

• NLCs and mannosylated-NLCs exhibited suitable size and morphology for pulmonary delivery.
• No significant cytotoxicity or pro-inflammatory response was observed 24 hours post-exposure.
• Nanoparticles were effectively distributed to both macrophages and epithelial cells in the apical region of the lung tissue.

Conclusions:

• Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are biocompatible and suitable for pulmonary drug delivery.
• Mannosylated NLCs demonstrate potential for targeted delivery by interacting with lung cells.
• These findings support the use of NLCs as a drug delivery platform for lung diseases like tuberculosis.