Fabrication and evaluation of SDF-1 loaded galactosylated chitosan nanoparticles for liver targeting

Abstract

Objective. SDF-1 loaded galactosylated chitosan (GC) nanoparticles for liver targeting were synthesized by electrospraying technique, and its biocompatibility and liver targeting effect were evaluated. Method. The SDF-1 loaded GC nanoparticles were constructed and its morphology was observed by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Hepatocytes were harvested and cocultured with the nanoparticles, and the albumin secretion and urea synthesis were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay assay, the concentration of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) was also measured. Finally, the nanoparticles were injected intravenously through the caudal vein of rat, and its liver targeting effect was evaluated. Result. SEM showed the nanoparticles distributed uniformly, with an average diameter of 100 nm and a regular spherical shape. There was no significant difference in urea synthesis, albumin secretion, concentration of LDH and TNF-α between two groups (p > 0.05). The nanoparticles were significantly accumulated in the liver tissue after its injection, but seldom fluorescence signals were observed in the lung, spleen, heart and kidney. Conclusion. The SDF-1 loaded GC nanoparticles showed uniform distribution, good biocompatibility and liver targeting effect, and suggested its potential application as a liver targeting delivery system.