Nanostructured recombinant cytokines: A highly stable alternative to short-lived prophylactics.

Abstract

Cytokines have been widely used as adjuvants and therapeutic agents in treatments of human diseases. Despite their recognized potential as drugs, the medical use of cytokines has considerable drawbacks, mainly related to their low stability and short half-life. Such intrinsic limitations imply the administration of high doses, often prompting toxicity, undesirable side effects and greater production costs. Here, we describe a new category of mechanically stable nanostructured cytokines (TNFα and CCL4/MIP-1β) that resist harsh physicochemical conditions invitro (pH and temperature), while maintaining functionality. These bio-functional materials are produced in recombinant cell factories through cost-effective and fully scalable processes. Notably, we demonstrate their prophylactic potential invivo showing they protect zebrafish from a lethal infection by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.