H₂O₂-responsive VEGF/NGF gene co-delivery nano-system achieves stable vascularization in ischemic hindlimbs

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a common clinical manifestation of atherosclerosis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene therapy is a promising approach for PVD treatment. However, due to single-gene therapy limitations and high H₂O₂ pathological microenvironment, VEGF gene therapy are not as expectations and its clinical application are limited. Synergistic effects of Nerve factors and vascular factors in angiogenesis have attracted attention in recent years. In this study, VEGF and nerve growth factor (NGF) genes co-delivery nanoparticles (VEGF/NGF-NPs) were prepared by using H₂O₂ responsive 6s-PLGA-Po-PEG as a carrier. 6s-PLGA-Po-PEG could react with H₂O₂ specifically due to the internal peroxalate bond. Angiogenic effects of VEGF/NGF-NPs has been evaluated in cells and hindlimb ischemia mice model. Results showed that VEGF/NGF-NPs promoted VEGF and NGF co-expression simultaneously, eliminated excessive H₂O₂, strengthened reactions between SH-SY5Ys and HUVECs, and finally enhanced migration, tube formation, proliferation and H₂O₂ damage resistance of HUVECs. VEGF/NGF-NPs also recovered blood perfusion, promoted the expression of VEGF, NGF, eNOS and NO, and enhanced vascular coverage of pericytes. Treatment effects of VEGF/NGF-NPs may related to VEGF/eNOS/NO pathway. Altogether, VEGF/NGF-NPs eliminated excessive H₂O₂ while achieving gene co-delivery, and promoted stable angiogenesis. It's a promising way for PVD treatment by using VEGF/NGF-NPs.