Biophysical analysis of gelatin and PLGA nanoparticle interactions with complex biomimetic lung surfactant models

Biocompatible materials are increasingly used for pulmonary drug delivery, and it is essential to understand their potential impact on the respiratory system, notably their effect on lung surfactant, a monolayer of lipids and proteins, responsible for preventing alveolar collapse during breathing cycles. We have developed a complex mimic of lung surfactant composed of eight lipids mixed in ratios reported for native lung surfactant. A synthetic peptide based on surfactant protein B was added to better mimic the biological system. This model was used to evaluate the impact of biocompatible gelatin and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles. Surface pressure-area isotherms were used to assess lipid packing, film compressibility and stability, whereas the lateral organization was visualized by Brewster angle microscopy. Nanoparticles increased film fluidity and altered the monolayer collapse pressure. Bright protruding clusters formed in their presence indicate a significant impact on the lateral organization of the surfactant film. Altogether, this work indicates that biocompatible materials considered to be safe for drug delivery still need to be assessed for their potential detrimental impact before use in therapeutic applications.