Zinc-imidazolate polymers (ZIPs) as a potential carrier to brain capillary endothelial cells

Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of nanospheres of a biodegradable zinc-imidazolate polymers (ZIPs) as a proof-of-concept delivery vehicle into human brain endothelial cells, the main component of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The ZIP particles can readily encapsulate functional molecules such as fluorophores and inorganic nanoparticles at the point of synthesis producing stable colloidal dispersions. Our results show that these biodegradable particles are not cytotoxic, and are able to penetrate and release cargo species to human brain capillary endothelial cells in vitro thus exhibiting significant potential as a novel platform for brain targeting treatments.