Cell membrane-based nanovesicles as potential drug delivery systems for atherosclerosis therapy

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Atherosclerosis, a leading cause of death, stems from endothelial dysfunction and plaque development.
• Current statin treatments have systemic side effects, necessitating targeted drug delivery systems.
• Biomimetic nanovesicles (NVs) offer biocompatibility, immune evasion, and natural targeting for drug delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize pravastatin-loaded nanovesicles (PRA-loaded NVs) derived from macrophage cell membranes.
• To evaluate the therapeutic potential of these NVs for atherosclerosis treatment.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication and characterization of PRA-loaded NVs from RAW 264.7 macrophage membranes.
• Assessment of NV integrin receptor expression (CD49d, CD11b) for targeting inflamed endothelium.
• Evaluation of drug encapsulation, sustained release, biocompatibility, cellular uptake, and therapeutic efficacy in vitro.

Main Results:

• PRA-loaded NVs retained integrin receptors, suggesting potential targeting of inflamed vessels (VCAM, ICAM-I).
• NVs demonstrated efficient encapsulation, sustained pravastatin release, high biocompatibility, and cellular uptake.
• Functional assays confirmed pravastatin's therapeutic effect: reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoted foam cell cholesterol release.

Conclusions:

• Biomimetic NVs are effective drug carriers for atherosclerosis, maintaining therapeutic cargo activity.
• These NVs show potential for targeted delivery, enhanced efficacy, and reduced side effects compared to systemic statins.
• This study highlights the promise of macrophage-derived NVs as innovative therapeutic agents for atherosclerosis.