Biodegradable Polyglycerol Sulfates Exhibit Promising Features for Anti-inflammatory Applications

Biomacromolecules. 2018 Dec 10;19(12):4524-4533. doi: 10.1021/acs.biomac.8b01100. Epub 2018 Nov 26.

Abstract

Inflammatory processes are beneficial responses to overcome injury or illness. Knowledge of the underlying mechanisms allows for a specific treatment. Thus, synthetic systems can be generated for a targeted interaction. In this context, dendritic polyglycerol sulfates (dPGS) have been investigated as anti-inflammatory compounds. Biodegradable systems are required to prevent compound accumulation in the body. Here we present biodegradable analogs of dPGS based on hyperbranched poly(glycidol- co-caprolactone) bearing a hydrophilic sulfate outer shell (hPG- co-PCLS). The copolymers were investigated regarding their physical and chemical properties. The cytocompatibility was confirmed using A549, Caco-2, and HaCaT cells. Internalization of hPG- co-PCLS by A549 and Caco-2 cells was observed as well. Moreover, we demonstrated that hPG- co-PCLS acted as a competitive inhibitor of the leukocytic cell adhesion receptor L-selectin. Further, a reduction of complement activity was observed. These new biodegradable dPGS analogs are therefore attractive for therapeutic applications regarding inflammatory diseases.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • A549 Cells
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / chemistry*
  • Biodegradable Plastics / chemistry*
  • Caco-2 Cells
  • Cell Adhesion / drug effects
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Glycerol / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / drug therapy*
  • L-Selectin / chemistry
  • Leukocytes / chemistry
  • Leukocytes / drug effects
  • Polymers / chemistry*
  • Sulfates / chemistry*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Biodegradable Plastics
  • Polymers
  • Sulfates
  • L-Selectin
  • polyglycerol
  • Glycerol