Macrophage membrane functionalized biomimetic nanoparticles for targeted anti-atherosclerosis applications
Yi Wang, Kang Zhang, Tianhan Li, Ali Maruf, Xian Qin, Li Luo, Yuan Zhong, Juhui Qiu, Sean McGinty, Giuseppe Pontrelli, Xiaoling Liao, Wei Wu, Guixue Wang
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS), the underlying cause of most cardiovascular events, is one of the most common causes of human morbidity and mortality worldwide due to the lack of an efficient strategy for targeted therapy. In this work, we aimed to develop an ideal biomimetic nanoparticle for targeted AS therapy. Methods: Based on macrophage "homing" into atherosclerotic lesions and cell membrane coating nanotechnology, biomimetic nanoparticles (MM/RAPNPs) were fabricated with a macrophage membrane (MM) coating on the surface of rapamycin-loaded poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) copolymer (PLGA) nanoparticles (RAPNPs). Subsequently, the physical properties of the MM/RAPNPs were characterized. The biocompatibility and biological functions of MM/RAPNPs were determined in vitro. Finally, in AS mouse models, the targeting characteristics, therapeutic efficacy and safety of the MM/RAPNPs were examined.