In the present experimental series, we have developed a novel nanocomposite to target activated macrophages in the colon with real time imaging and therapeutic capabilities. This binary nanocomposite was formed… Click to show full abstract
In the present experimental series, we have developed a novel nanocomposite to target activated macrophages in the colon with real time imaging and therapeutic capabilities. This binary nanocomposite was formed by the covalent conjugation of mannosylated NPs (Man-NPs) with carbon dots (CDs). Man-NPs were prepared using a self-assembly method based on mannosylated decamethylenediamine-grafted carboxymethyl inulin amphiphilic acid. While, the CDs were synthesized using a simple bottom-up process using citric acid monohydrate and diethylenetriamine, which were tightly bonded to the Man-NPs surface by carbodimide coupling. The resulting nanocomposite had a uniform size of 241.3 nm with a negative charge and a high drug casing density of 25.54 wt% and blue self-fluorescence were emitted. Whereas, in vitro observation of cellular uptake indicated the greater nanocomposite uptake in inflamed macrophage as compared to the untreated macrophage and mannose receptor-negative cell lines, 4T1 respectively. However, in vivo bio distribution exhibited a large number (60%) of CDs/Man-NPs nanocomposite accumulated in the inflamed colon of colitis mice. It should be noted that the novel nanocomposite, as macrophage-targeted drug delivery, could have promise for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
               
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