Controlled adsorption of multiple bioactive proteins enables targeted mast cell nanotherapy

Nat Nanotechnol. 2024 Jan 16. doi: 10.1038/s41565-023-01584-z. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Protein adsorption onto nanomaterials often results in denaturation and loss of bioactivity. Controlling the adsorption process to maintain the protein structure and function has potential for a range of applications. Here we report that self-assembled poly(propylene sulfone) (PPSU) nanoparticles support the controlled formation of multicomponent enzyme and antibody coatings and maintain their bioactivity. Simulations indicate that hydrophobic patches on protein surfaces induce a site-specific dipole relaxation of PPSU assemblies to non-covalently anchor the proteins without disrupting the protein hydrogen bonding or structure. As a proof of concept, a nanotherapy employing multiple mast-cell-targeted antibodies for preventing anaphylaxis is demonstrated in a humanized mouse model. PPSU nanoparticles displaying an optimized ratio of co-adsorbed anti-Siglec-6 and anti-FcεRIα antibodies effectively inhibit mast cell activation and degranulation, preventing anaphylaxis. Protein immobilization on PPSU surfaces provides a simple and rapid platform for the development of targeted protein nanomedicines.