pH-sensitive polydopamine nanocapsules for cell imaging and drug delivery based on folate receptor targeting

J Biomed Nanotechnol. 2013 Jul;9(7):1155-63. doi: 10.1166/jbn.2013.1611.

Abstract

A pH-triggered drug delivery system that can specially target to folate-receptors-overexpressing cancer cells was designed based on newly developed polydopamine capsules and folic acid. The polycapsules bioconjugates possess capabilities of high drug loading, enhanced folate-receptor-mediated cell uptake, and sustained drug release by intracellular pH changes. It was also found that the sustained release of drugs significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in targeted cells. The efficient cell-specific endocytosis and intracellular pH-responsive controlled drug delivery of the capsules is promising for future in vivo therapeutic applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media
  • Delayed-Action Preparations / administration & dosage*
  • Delayed-Action Preparations / chemistry
  • Folate Receptors, GPI-Anchored / metabolism*
  • Folic Acid / pharmacokinetics*
  • HeLa Cells
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Indoles / chemistry*
  • Materials Testing
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence / methods
  • Molecular Imaging / methods
  • Nanocapsules / chemistry
  • Nanocapsules / therapeutic use*
  • Polymers / chemistry*

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Folate Receptors, GPI-Anchored
  • Indoles
  • Nanocapsules
  • Polymers
  • polydopamine
  • Folic Acid