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Connexin-Containing Vesicles for Drug Delivery.
Mahmoud S Hanafy1, Zhengrong Cui2
1Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA.
The AAPS Journal
|January 24, 2024
Summary
Connexin hemichannels on extracellular vesicles can deliver drugs intracellularly. This review explores connexin-containing vesicles for targeted drug delivery, discussing their preparation, cargo loading, and therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Connexins form connexons, which assemble into gap junctions for intercellular communication.
- Connexin hemichannels can be surface-displayed on extracellular vesicles.
- Extracellular vesicles can mediate intercellular cargo transfer via hemichannel coupling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cell-derived extracellular vesicles and cell-free liposomes containing connexins.
- To discuss methods for preparing and loading these vesicles with therapeutic cargos.
- To explore the potential of connexin-containing vesicles for intracellular drug delivery.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on connexin-containing vesicles and liposomes.
- Analysis of preparation techniques and cargo-loading strategies.
- Evaluation of factors influencing connexin hemichannel activity.
Main Results:
- Connexin-containing vesicles can be engineered for targeted drug delivery.
- These vesicles facilitate direct cytoplasmic transfer of intravesicular contents.
- Connexin hemichannel activity is crucial for vesicle-mediated cargo delivery.
Conclusions:
- Connexin-containing vesicles represent a promising platform for intracellular drug delivery.
- Further research is needed to overcome challenges and realize the full therapeutic potential.
- This delivery system offers a novel approach for targeted intracellular therapeutics.
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