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Plasma dependent pH sensitivity of liposomes containing sulfatide
1Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Milano, Italy.
Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta
|April 8, 1993
Summary
Researchers developed novel liposomes using egg phosphatidylcholine (EPC) and bovine brain sulfatide (CS) that become sensitive to pH drops in the presence of plasma. These liposomes show potential for targeted drug delivery to pathological tissues.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Liposomes are widely used drug delivery systems.
- Achieving targeted drug delivery to specific tissues remains a challenge.
- Modulating liposome stability based on physiological conditions is desirable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create plasma-stable liposomes sensitive to pH changes.
- To investigate the role of plasma components in liposome destabilization.
- To explore potential applications in targeted drug delivery.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of small unilamellar vesicles (SUVs) from egg phosphatidylcholine (EPC) and bovine brain sulfatide (CS).
- Monitoring liposome stability by measuring the release of entrapped 5,6-carboxyfluorescein (CF).
- Incubation of liposomes in buffer and plasma at varying pH levels (7.4 and 6.8).
Main Results:
- EPC/CS liposomes showed a 3-fold increase in CF release at pH 6.8 with 50% plasma compared to pH 7.4.
- Liposomes without sulfatide did not exhibit pH-dependent leakage.
- Very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) were identified as key plasma components inducing pH sensitivity.
Conclusions:
- EPC/CS liposomes demonstrate tunable pH sensitivity mediated by plasma, particularly VLDL.
- These liposomes are promising for targeted drug delivery to acidic pathological environments like tumors and inflamed tissues.
- The findings open avenues for developing advanced drug delivery systems responsive to disease-specific conditions.