Optimizing microRNA delivery via albumin-decorated nanostructured lipid carriers
Ivana Ruseska1, Amina Tucak-Smajić2, Ivan Vidaković3
1Department of Pharmaceutical technology and Biopharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 1, 8010 Graz, Austria.
International Journal of Pharmaceutics: X
|December 1, 2025
Summary
microRNA-27a shows promise for obesity treatment but faces delivery challenges. Coating miRNA-loaded cationic nanostructured lipid carriers (cNLCs) with human serum albumin (HSA) created albuplexes, enhancing stability and cellular uptake for potential anti-obesity therapies.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Nanomedicine
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- microRNA-27a is a potential therapeutic for obesity.
- Clinical application is limited by degradation and poor cell entry.
- Cationic nanostructured lipid carriers (cNLCs) were developed for miRNA delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a stable delivery system for miRNA-27a using cNLCs.
- To enhance cellular uptake and therapeutic efficacy of miRNA-27a.
- To investigate the anti-adipogenic effects of HSA-coated miRNA/cNLCs (albuplexes).
Main Methods:
- Formulation of cNLCs via high-pressure homogenization.
- Coating miRNA/cNLC complexes with human serum albumin (HSA) to form albuplexes.
- Characterization of albuplexes (size, charge, stability, morphology) and assessment of cellular uptake and anti-adipogenic effects in 3T3-L1 cells.
Main Results:
- Albuplexes demonstrated favorable physicochemical properties and enhanced stability in serum.
- Rapid endocytosis of albuplexes by 3T3-L1 cells was observed.
- Albuplexes showed significant anti-adipogenic effects by reducing lipid droplet accumulation.
Conclusions:
- HSA coating effectively prevents protein corona formation and enhances cellular uptake of miRNA-loaded cNLCs.
- Albuplexes represent a promising nanocarrier system for miRNA-27a delivery.
- This strategy holds potential for developing novel miRNA-based therapies for obesity.
