Stimuli-responsive recombinant elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs) are artificial protein polymers derived from the hydrophobic domain of tropoelastin that have attracted significant interest for drug delivery applications regarding their biocompatibility, non-immunogenicity and cost-effective production in large scale with precise control on molecular composition and molar mass. We have recently reported the synthesis and formulation of a bioconjugate comprising a photosensitizer (PS) and an oxidation-responsive ELP backbone which upon reaction with singlet oxygen is transformed into a hydrophilic polypeptide facilitating the disassembly and penetration of PS-ELP particles during the PDT process. We are now exploring a second generation PS-ELP bioconjugate using verteporfin as clinically approved PS and photooxidation catalyst and developing different formulations of the latter to be used either for local drug depot or for systemic administration for the treatment of glioblastoma IDH1 WT, a grade IV malignant glioma, one of the most lethal human cancer.

Oxidation-responsive elastin-like polypeptide conjugates for PDT/RDT applications

ACS Spring 2022

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