Monocyte targeting and activation by cationic liposomes formulated with a TLR7 agonist.

Objectives: Monocytes are one of the major phagocytic cells that patrol for invading pathogens, and upon activation, differentiate into macrophages or antigen-presenting dendritic cells (DCs) capable of migrating to lymph nodes eliciting an adaptive immune response. The key role in regulating adaptive immune responses has drawn attention to modulate monocyte responses therapeutically within cancer, inflammation and infectious diseases. We present a technology for targeting of monocytes and delivery of a toll-like receptor (TLR) agonist in fresh blood using liposomes with a positively charged surface chemistry.