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Multi-timescale Microscopy Methods for the Characterization of Fluorescently-labeled Microbubbles for Ultrasound-Triggered Drug Release
Published on: June 12, 2021
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Ultrasound-triggered imaging and drug delivery using microbubble-self-aggregate complexes.
In Jae Chung1, Hyungwon Moon2, Seong Ik Jeon1
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Research Institute of Advanced Materials (RIAM), Seoul National University, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, Korea.
Journal of Biomaterials Science. Polymer Edition
|September 10, 2021
Summary
New microbubble-self-aggregate complexes (MB-SAs) effectively deliver anticancer drugs, enhancing ultrasound imaging and therapeutic effects through sonoporation. This novel approach overcomes previous limitations for hydrophobic drug co-delivery.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Oncology
Background:
- Co-delivery of microbubbles (MBs) with anticancer drugs offers theranostic potential, improving ultrasound contrast and drug extravasation via sonoporation.
- Challenges remain in loading hydrophobic drugs and preventing MB destabilization during simultaneous administration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate novel microbubble-self-aggregate complexes (MB-SAs) for efficient co-delivery of hydrophobic anticancer drugs.
- To investigate the theranostic properties of these MB-SAs in vitro and in vivo.
Main Methods:
- Glycol chitosan self-aggregates (GC-SAs) loaded with hydrophobic drugs/dyes were conjugated onto MBs, forming GC-SA attached MBs (GC@MBs).
- Conjugation efficiency, MB stability, in vitro cellular uptake via sonoporation, in vivo biodistribution in tumor-bearing mice, and in vivo cytotoxicity were assessed.
Main Results:
- A high conjugation ratio of 73.9% was achieved without compromising MB stability.
- GC@MBs demonstrated enhanced cellular uptake through sonoporation and improved tumor accumulation (1.85x) post-ultrasound irradiation.
- Anticancer drug-loaded GC@MBs showed a 10% increase in cytotoxicity under ultrasound exposure.
Conclusions:
- GC@MBs represent a promising theranostic platform for co-delivering hydrophobic drugs and acting as ultrasound contrast agents.
- This approach is compatible with conventional ultrasonic devices, offering a viable strategy for enhanced cancer therapy.
