Experimental Study on the Compatibility and Characteristics of a Dual-Target Microbubble Loaded with Anti-miR-33

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Microbubbles are crucial ultrasound contrast agents.
• Targeted drug delivery systems are needed to improve therapeutic efficacy.
• Atherosclerosis (AS) requires early detection and intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and characterize novel dual-target microbubbles loaded with anti-miR-33 (ANM33).
• To evaluate the physical, chemical, and biological properties of these microbubbles for potential use in AS.
• To assess their imaging and targeting capabilities in vitro.

Main Methods:

• Nanobubbles (NBs) were prepared and functionalized with PM1 and hyaluronic acid (HA).
• Anti-miR-33 (ANM33) was loaded onto the microbubbles via electrostatic adsorption and covalent bonding.
• Morphology, particle size, surface potential, stability, in vitro imaging, and cellular toxicity were evaluated.

Main Results:

• The prepared HA-PANBs exhibited regular morphology, good stability, and a particle size of ~1421 nm.
• High binding efficiencies for PM1 (89.0%), ANM33 (65.0%), and HA (61.4%) were achieved.
• HA-PANBs demonstrated no significant cellular toxicity and enhanced in vitro imaging for over 15 minutes, effectively targeting foam cells.

Conclusions:

• HA-PANBs are promising ultrasound contrast agents with high ANM33 carrying capacity.
• The dual-targeting strategy with PM1 and HA enhances drug loading and microbubble stability.
• These microbubbles show significant potential for early-stage AS diagnosis and therapy.