Macrophage Membrane-Encapsulated Dopamine-Modified Poly Cyclodextrin Multifunctional Biomimetic Nanoparticles for Atherosclerosis Therapy

  • 0Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.

|

|

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

This study introduces novel nanoparticles that reduce cholesterol and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in atherosclerotic plaques. This dual-action approach offers a promising new therapy for atherosclerosis (AS).

Area Of Science

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Nanotechnology
  • Cardiovascular Research

Background

  • Atherosclerotic plaques are characterized by high cholesterol and oxidative stress from reactive oxygen species (ROS), driving inflammation.
  • Current therapies struggle to address these multiple pro-inflammatory factors simultaneously.
  • Developing strategies to remove cholesterol and scavenge ROS is crucial for effective atherosclerosis (AS) treatment.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To construct macrophage membrane-encapsulated biomimetic nanoparticles (MM@DA-pCD@MTX) for simultaneous cholesterol removal and ROS scavenging.
  • To investigate the therapeutic potential of MM@DA-pCD@MTX in alleviating cholesterol deposition and oxidative stress in atherosclerotic lesions.
  • To evaluate the targeted drug delivery and pharmacokinetic advantages of MM-functionalized nanoparticles for AS treatment.

Main Methods

  • Construction of macrophage membrane-encapsulated biomimetic nanoparticles (MM@DA-pCD@MTX).
  • Utilizing β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and methotrexate (MTX) to induce cholesterol efflux and inhibit foam cell formation.
  • Incorporating dopamine (DA) for reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging.
  • Leveraging macrophage membrane (MM) for targeted delivery to atherosclerotic plaques.

Main Results

  • MM@DA-pCD@MTX effectively alleviated cholesterol deposition via reverse cholesterol transport.
  • The nanoparticles successfully scavenged overaccumulated ROS, reducing oxidative stress.
  • MTX upregulated key genes (ABCA1, CYP27A1, SR-B1) involved in cholesterol metabolism.
  • β-CD enhanced cholesterol crystal solubility, and DA preserved ROS scavenging ability.
  • MM functionalization enabled targeted delivery, prolonged circulation time, and increased drug half-life.

Conclusions

  • MM@DA-pCD@MTX is a potent, multifunctional therapeutic platform for atherosclerosis (AS) treatment.
  • The nanoparticles demonstrate high biosafety and efficacy in addressing the complex pathophysiology of AS.
  • This biomimetic nanoparticle approach offers a promising strategy for managing cholesterol deposition and oxidative stress in AS.