Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2025

Characterization of Immune Cell-derived Extracellular Vesicles and Studying Functional Impact on Cell Environment
Published on: June 2, 2020
Inflammation-Responsive Polyion Complex Vesicles for Autoimmune Disease Therapy via Cell-Free DNA Scavenging and
Renxiang Zhou1, Yang Zhou1, Mengyuan Yin1
1Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science & Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
Abstract:
Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) scavenging represents a promising anti-inflammatory modality for autoimmune disease (AID) treatment. However, it remains challenging for existing systems to achieve inflammation-targeted cfDNA scavenging and the management of cfDNA-unrelated inflammatory pathways. Herein, inflammation-responsive polyion complex vesicles (PICsomes) are developed, bridging inflammation-instructed cfDNA scavenging, and methotrexate (MTX) delivery for AID management. A positively charged, PEGylated polypeptide with guanidine side chains (PEG-PG) is developed, which self-assembles with a negatively charged, cis-aconitic anhydride-modified poly-L-lysine (PC) to form the PICsomes and encapsulate MTX disodium salt. The neutrally charged PICsomes feature prolonged blood circulation after systemic administration, allowing for passive accumulation to the inflamed tissues. In the slightly acidic inflammatory microenvironment, PC transforms from negatively charged to positively charged, thereby disintegrating the PICsomes and liberating the PEG-PG and MTX. Consequently, PEG-PG-mediated cfDNA scavenging and MTX-mediated immunosuppression cooperate to inhibit inflammation and ameliorate the inflammatory microenvironment, promoting tissue repair in AID mouse models including collagen-induced arthritis and 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid-induced colitis.
Related Concept Videos
Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Tumor Immunotherapy
Autoimmune Disorders
Concept and Mechanism of Autoimmune Diseases
The immune...
T Cell Types and Functions
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Biologic Agents: Anti-TNF

