Biomaterial-targeted precision nanoparticle delivery to the injured spinal cord

Acta Biomater., 2022 · DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.08.077 · Published: October 15, 2022

Simple Explanation

The BEACON system utilizes an implantable biomaterial to serve as a target for systemically delivered nanoparticles (NPs). Administered NPs are conjugated with a ligand that has high affinity for a receptor in the implanted biomaterial. The BEACON system can be applied broadly, beyond the nervous system, to improve systemically delivered NP accumulation at an implanted biomaterial target.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Adult Balb/c female mice aged 6–8 weeks

Evidence Level

Level Not specified, In vivo spinal cord injury (SCI) model

Key Findings

1
Demonstrated temporal dexterity in NP administration by injecting 6 days post-SCI.
2
Decreased off-target accumulation with a significant drop in liver accumulation.
3
Retention of our NPs in the target biomaterial.

Research Summary

The BEACON system developed herein eliminates the need to target a cell or tissue receptor by targeting an implantable biomaterial with location-controllable accumulation and sustained presentation over time. The targeting paradigm presented by BEACON is widely applicable throughout tissue engineering and regenerative medicine without the need to retool for each new application. This work represents a significant step forward towards developing a comprehensive biomaterial-based platform for NP delivery.

Practical Implications

Improved therapeutic regimens

Targeted drug delivery approaches have the potential to improve therapeutic regimens for patients on a case-by-case basis.

Increased efficacy and reduced dosing

Improved localization of a therapeutic to site of interest can result in increased efficacy and limit the need for repeat dosing.

Broad applicability

The targeting paradigm presented by BEACON is widely applicable throughout tissue engineering and regenerative medicine without the need to retool for each new application.

Study Limitations

1
Potential adsorption on the tubes impacting biotin binding site availability.
2
Steric hindrance between streptavidin molecules potentially limiting conjugation to the NP surface.
3
The implantation approach could potentially limit BEACON’s widespread use in applications where an implant is not needed.

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