3D-printed bioresorbable poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) and quantum-dot nanocomposites: Scaffolds for enhanced bone mineralization and inbuilt co-monitoring.

Multifunctional 3D-printed nanocomposites based on poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), that is, PLGA (RESOMER® LG857S) were developed for simultaneous monitoring of cells and scaffold as a function of time and spectral responses. These were achieved by impregnating carbon quantum dots (CQDs) on PLGA using melt-blending, plasticating extrusion, and 3D-printing. The nanocomposites enabled enhanced bio-affinity and cellular interactions for bone tissue engineering (TE).

Delivery of pDNA to lung epithelial cells using PLGA nanoparticles formulated with a cell-penetrating peptide: understanding the intracellular fate.

The combination of nanoparticles (NPs) and cell-penetrating peptide (CPP) represents a new opportunity to develop plasmid DNA (pDNA) delivery systems with desirable properties for lung delivery. In this study, poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) NPs containing pDNA were formulated with and without CPP using a double-emulsion technique. NPs were characterized in regards of size, surface charge, release profile, pDNA encapsulation efficiency and pDNA integrity.

Nanotoxicologic Effects of PLGA Nanoparticles Formulated with a Cell-Penetrating Peptide: Searching for a Safe pDNA Delivery System for the Lungs.

The use of cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) in combination with nanoparticles (NPs) shows great potential for intracellular delivery of DNA. Currently, its application is limited due to the potential toxicity and unknown long-term side effects. In this study NPs prepared using a biodegradable polymer, poly(lactic⁻⁻glycolic acid (PLGA) in association with a CPP, was assessed on two lung epithelial cell lines (adenocarcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial cells (A549) and normal bronchial epithelial cells (Beas-2B cells)).

Human Stimulus Factor Is a Promising Peptide for Delivery of Therapeutics.

Fluticasone propionate uptake in the presence of a proprietary cell-penetrating peptide (human stimulus factor, [HSF]) based on the N-terminal domain of lactoferrin was studied, alone and in combination with salmeterol, using an air interface Calu-3 epithelial model. The HSF enhanced uptake and transport of fluticasone propionate across the epithelial barrier when alone and in presence of salmeterol. This was attributed to transcellular-mediated uptake.

Delivery of pDNA Polyplexes to Bronchial and Alveolar Epithelial Cells Using a Mesh Nebulizer.

Purpose: In this study, a cell penetrating peptide was used as an uptake enhancer for pDNA delivery to the lungs.

Methods: Polyplexes were prepared between pDNA and CPP. Intracellular delivery of pDNA was assessed in both alveolar (A549) and bronchial (Calu-3) epithelial cells.