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High-throughput Synthesis of Carbohydrates and Functionalization of Polyanhydride Nanoparticles
Published on: July 6, 2012
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pH-Responsive Amylopectin Nanoparticles for On-Demand Glucose Production in Acidic Microenvironments
Vinod Kumar Kannaujiya1,2,3, Yijie Qiao1,2,3, Peter R Wich1,2,3
1School of Chemical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia.
Biomacromolecules
|October 18, 2025
Summary
This study developed a novel nanosystem that produces glucose from amylopectin in acidic cellular compartments. This system offers a potential solution for intracellular glucose delivery to cells with energy deficits.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Cellular Metabolism
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Glucose is vital for cellular energy and metabolic processes.
- Insufficient glucose supply can cause metabolic dysfunction and health issues.
- Targeted glucose production within cells is needed to address deficiencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel nanosystem for localized glucose production within acidic cellular compartments.
- To create an acid-sensitive material for controlled enzyme release and glucose generation.
- To evaluate the biocompatibility and efficacy of the glucose-producing nanosystem.
Main Methods:
- Amylopectin (AMY) was modified to acetalated amylopectin (AcAMY), an acid-sensitive hydrophobic material.
- A double emulsion method was used to encapsulate glucoamylase within AcAMY particles.
- pH-dependent particle degradation and glucoamylase release were analyzed.
- Glucose production was quantified under acidic and physiological conditions.
- Cell viability assays were performed to assess biocompatibility.
Main Results:
- The nanosystem demonstrated pH-dependent degradation and controlled release of glucoamylase.
- Under acidic conditions (pH 5-6), glucose production reached up to 80% within 48 hours.
- Under physiological conditions (pH 7.4), glucose production was minimal (6%).
- Particles showed stability in physiological environments and no toxicity to cells.
- High loading efficiency of glucoamylase was achieved.
Conclusions:
- The developed nanosystem effectively produces glucose in acidic intracellular environments.
- The system exhibits excellent biocompatibility and stability under physiological conditions.
- This technology holds promise for intracellular glucose delivery to deficient cells or tissues.
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