Metabolite releasing polymers control dendritic cell function by modulating their energy metabolism

J Mater Chem B. 2020 Jun 24;8(24):5195-5203. doi: 10.1039/d0tb00790k.

Abstract

Metabolites control immune cell functions, and delivery of these metabolites in a sustained manner may be able to modulate function of the immune cells. In this study, alpha-ketoglutarate (aKG) and diol based polymeric-microparticles (termed paKG MPs) were synthesized to provide sustained release of aKG and promote an immunosuppressive cellular phenotype. Notably, after association with dendritic cells (DCs), paKG MPs modulated the intracellular metabolic-profile/pathways, and decreased glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration in vitro. These metabolic changes resulted in modulation of MHC-II, CD86 expression in DCs, and altered the frequency of regulatory T cells (Tregs), and T-helper type-1/2/17 cells in vitro. This unique strategy of intracellular delivery of key-metabolites in a sustained manner provides a new direction in immunometabolism field-based immunotherapy with potential applications in different diseases associated with immune disorders.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Dendritic Cells / chemistry
  • Dendritic Cells / metabolism*
  • Energy Metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Particle Size
  • Polymers / chemistry
  • Polymers / metabolism*
  • Surface Properties
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / metabolism
  • Th1 Cells / metabolism

Substances

  • Polymers