Dextran-based therapeutic nanoparticles for hepatic drug delivery

Abstract

Aim: Evaluation of dextran-based nanoparticles (DNP) as a drug delivery system to target myeloid cells of the liver. Materials & methods: DNP were synthesized and optionally PEGylated. Their toxicity and cellular uptake were studied in vitro. Empty and siRNA-carrying DNP were tested in vivo with regard to biodistribution and cellular uptake. Results: In vitro, DNP were taken up by cells of the myeloid lineage without compromising their viability. In vivo, empty and siRNA-carrying DNP distributed to the liver where a single treatment addressed approximately 70% of macrophages and dendritic cells. Serum parameters indicated no in vivo toxicity. Conclusion: DNP are multifunctional liver-specific drug carriers which lack toxic side effects and may be utilized in clinical applications targeting liver macrophages.