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Published on: August 10, 2018
Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Based Biomimetic Liposome for Targeted Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Lan Ma1,2, Honghui Wu1,3, Jian Cao1
1State Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery and Release Systems, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
Abstract:
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disorder that severely compromises joint health. The primary therapeutic strategy for advanced RA aims to inhibit joint inflammation. However, the nonspecific distribution of pharmacological agents has limited therapeutic efficacy and heightens the risks associated with RA treatment. To address this issue, we developed mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based biomimetic liposomes, termed MSCsome, which were composed of a fusion between MSC membranes and liposomes. MSC some with relatively simple preparation method effectively enhanced the targeting efficiency of drug to diseased joints. Interaction between lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 enhanced the affinity of the MSCsome for polarized macrophages, thereby improving its targeting capability to affected joints. The effective targeted delivery facilitated drug accumulation in joints, resulting in the significant inhibition of the inflammation, as well as protection and repair of the cartilage. In conclusion, this study introduced MSCsome as a promising approach for the effective treatment of advanced RA, providing a novel perspective on targeted drug delivery therapy for inflammatory diseases.
Insights
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based biomimetic liposomes, called MSCsome, improve targeted drug delivery for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This novel approach enhances joint drug accumulation, reducing inflammation and repairing cartilage for advanced RA treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Immunology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease causing joint damage.
- Current RA treatments lack targeted drug delivery, limiting efficacy and increasing risks.
- Nonspecific drug distribution necessitates improved therapeutic strategies for advanced RA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel drug delivery system for advanced rheumatoid arthritis.
- To enhance the targeting efficiency of therapeutic agents to inflamed joints.
- To evaluate the efficacy of MSCsome in reducing joint inflammation and repairing cartilage.
Main Methods:
- Development of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based biomimetic liposomes (MSCsome).
- Investigating the interaction between MSCsome, lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1, and intercellular adhesion molecule-1.
- Assessing the targeting capability of MSCsome to polarized macrophages in affected joints.
Main Results:
- MSCsome demonstrated enhanced drug targeting efficiency to diseased joints.
- Improved affinity for polarized macrophages via LFA-1/ICAM-1 interactions increased joint targeting.
- Effective targeted delivery led to significant joint inflammation inhibition, cartilage protection, and repair.
Conclusions:
- MSCsome represents a promising targeted drug delivery approach for advanced RA.
- This study offers a novel perspective for treating inflammatory diseases with enhanced drug delivery.
- MSCsome facilitates drug accumulation in joints, reducing inflammation and promoting cartilage repair.

