Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) ‐ loaded nanoparticles decrease cholesterol content in THP‐1 derived macrophages

Abstract

The aim of this study is to synthesize EGCG‐loaded nanoparticles (Nano‐E) to improve EGCG stability, cellular content, decrease cholesterol accumulation and inflammatory factor production in THP‐1 derived macrophages.Biocompatible and biodegradable Nano–E was prepared by a phase inversion method. The particle size and zeta potential of Nano‐E were measured using Brookhaven analyzer. Encapsulation efficiency (EE), loading content (LC), EGCG release, stability of Nano‐E in different temperatures and pH, cellular EGCG and cholesterol content were measured using a HPLC system. Cellular uptake of fluorescent‐labeled Nano‐E was measured using a fluorescent microscope. Cell viability was measured using a MTT method.Nano‐E were about 45–55nm in diameter. The EE and LC were 90% and 3%, respectively. Nano‐E dramatically improved EGCG stability and increased its uptake by macrophages. The Nano‐E increased cellular EGCG content by 5‐fold compared with native EGCG at 100 μM at 37°C. As compared to 10 μM of native EGCG, Nano‐E at the same concentration significantly decreased cellular total and esterified cholesterol content in macrophages. Both Nano‐E and native EGCG at 10μM didn't decrease macrophage viability.Nano‐E significantly increased EGCG stability, cellular EGCG content, and decreased cholesterol accumulation in THP‐1 derived macrophages.Grant Funding Source: Grant Funding Source: NIH 1R15AT007013–01