Core Cross-Linked Polymeric Micelles for Specific Iron Delivery: Inducing Sterile Inflammation in Macrophages.

ABSTRACT: Iron is an essential co-factor for cellular processes. In the immune system, it can activate macrophages and represents a potential therapeutic for various diseases. To specifically deliver iron to macrophages, iron oxide nanoparticles are embedded in polymeric micelles of reactive polysarcosine-block-poly(S-ethylsulfonyl-l-cysteine). Upon surface functionalization via dihydrolipoic acid, iron oxide cores act as crosslinker themselves and undergo chemoselective disulfide bond formation with the surrounding poly(S-ethylsulfonyl-l-cysteine) block, yielding glutathione-responsive core cross-linked polymeric micelles (CCPMs). When applied to primary murine and human macrophages, these nanoparticles display preferential uptake, sustained intracellular iron release, and induce a strong inflammat

SUBMITTER: Bauer TA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11468145 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature