Experimental oxLDL macrophage cellular uptake results after 24-hr incubation with AM micelle or NP configurations under serum free conditions (white bars), 5% FBS (gray bars) and 20% FBS (black bars).
Invention Summary:
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention nearly 25% of deaths in the US is due to cardiovascular disease (CVD). Atherosclerosis is a condition involving the accumulation of lipid-rich plaques and chronic inflammation of the vascular wall. Plaque deposits initiate when low-density lipoproteins accumulate in the artery wall and subsequently undergo oxidative modification (oxLDL).
Researchers at Rutgers University have designed a novel treatment of CVD that uses nanoparticles (NPs) to target macrophage receptors associated with oxLDL. The nanoparticles are comprised of hydrophobic core and amphiphilic shell, which impart aqueous solubility and prevent unwanted particle-particle aggregation through steric stabilization. The amphiphilic shell is composed of a hydrophobic carbohydrate/sugar-derived backbone modified with long alkyl chains coupled to the hydrophilic polymer, poly(ethylene glycol). The uniqueness of the invention is the enhanced inhibition of oxLDL uptake in macrophages in serum, which in turn, may influence plaque formation. These amphiphile-stabilized NPs are a novel approach to manage atherogenesis.
Advantages:
- Enhanced stability of nanoparticles in serum
- Enhanced inhibition of oxLDL uptake
- Provides a unique opportunity for the management of atherogenesis
- Increased serum stability of nanoparticles
Market Applications:
- Atherosclerosis therapies
Intellectual Property & Development Status: Patent US10,016,517B2. Available for licensing and/or research collaboration.
