Protein Based NPs

Question 1

What are some main properties of HSA?

Answer 1

Most abundant plasma protein
Transport protein of hydrophobic molecules
Negative charge at neutral pH
Buffering capacity
Long half-life and many trips between cells and lymphatic
Both covalent and non-covalent binding

Question 2

What are the limitations of HSA?

Answer 2

Plasma derived protein - sterility issues (infection, viruses)

Heat treatment for sterilization require stabilizers which can decrease transport properties + loss of redox

Aggregate formation with plasma co-products

Question 3

Properties of HSA in cancer treatment

Answer 3

Transport
Bound drug lower toxicity
Accumulates in tumors and inflammation due to poor lymphatic drainage
Increased circulation time

Question 4

How can targeting with albumin be done?

Answer 4

Receptor mediated endocytosis

Question 5

How are albumin NPs made?

Answer 5

Emulsification method: Mix water and oil, heat in oil and transfer to water

Solvent exchange: Add anti-solvent until aggregation and NPs