The hard protein corona of stealth liposomes is sparse

Kristensen, K; Engel, TB; Stensballe, A; Simonsen, JB; Andresen, TL

Abstract

The protein corona is widely recognized as a key concept in contemporary nanomedicine. In recent years, the interest in the protein corona has reached new heights as a number of reports have suggested that a comprehensive protein corona can form around nanomaterials that previously were thought to be resistant to protein binding. For example, PEGylated stealth liposomes were long thought to be protein repellent, but a number of recent studies have found that a significant protein corona forms around such liposomes in the bloodstream. Prompted by these surprising recent findings, we here present an extensive quantitative study of the binding of blood proteins to standard PEGylated stealth liposomes. To make the study relevant for targeted as well as non-targeted drug delivery systems, the liposomes were prepared both with and without a targeting antibody conjugated to their surface. The prepared liposomes were either incubated in vitro in fetal bovine serum or administered in vivo into the bloodstream of mice. Subsequently, the liposomes were recovered and analyzed using a variety of techniques. There was very little protein binding to the liposomes recovered after in vitro incubation. In contrast, there was more protein binding to the liposomes recovered after in vivo circulation, but a deeper analysis estimated that the bound proteins still only covered a very low fraction of the liposomal surface area. Both the liposomes recovered after in vitro incubation and the liposomes recovered after in vivo circulation completely retained their size and receptor targeting characteristics. Taken collectively, our results thus demonstrate that the hard protein corona of both non-targeted and antibody-targeted stealth liposomes is sparse and does not affect the structure and function of the liposomes.

Keywords: Drug delivery; Nanomedicine; Protein corona; Liposomes; Antibody targeting

Related products/services

Magnetic Liposomes

PEGylated Magnetic Liposomes stand at the forefront of innovative drug delivery systems, merging the advantages of liposomal technology with the unique attributes of magnetic nanoparticles. This sophisticated approach involves encapsulating therapeutic agents within liposomes coated with polyethylene glycol (PEG) for improved stability and prolonged circulation in the bloodstream. The incorporation of magnetic elements allows for precise control over the liposomal movement and drug release through the application of external magnetic fields. This targeted delivery system holds tremendous promise in enhancing the site-specific accumulation of drugs, reducing systemic side effects, and improving overall therapeutic efficacy. PEGylated Magnetic Liposomes represent a remarkable synergy of biocompatible materials and advanced engineering, opening new avenues for personalized and efficient drug delivery strategies in various medical applications.

For more product/services information, please contact us at:

Tel: (USA)

Tel: (Europe)

Fax:

Email: