Polymeric nano/microparticles have been shown to possess significant potential as antigen delivery systems and immunostimulants. In particular, biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles with entrapped antigens, such as proteins, peptides or DNA represent an exciting approach to control the intracellular release of antigens and to optimize the desired immune response via selective targeting of the antigen to antigen-presenting cells (APCs). The efficient delivery of antigens to APCs, especially in dendritic cells (DCs) is one of the most important issues in the development of effective vaccines. Here we demonstrate the use of nanoparticles (NPs) composed of amphiphilic poly(amino acid) derivatives as vaccine delivery and adjuvants. We prepared antigen-loaded, biodegradable NPs composed of hydrophobically modified poly(gamma-glutamic acid) (gamma-PGA). The antigen delivery and immunostimulatory activity of the NPs to DCs was investigated, and the antigen-loaded NPs were found to be capable of inducing potent immune responses and anti-tumor effects.

Biodegradable nanoparticle-based antigen delivery and immunostimulant for vaccine development

243rd National Meeting (2012)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.