Smart osteoclasts targeted nanomedicine based on amorphous CaCO3 for effective osteoporosis reversal

J Nanobiotechnology. 2024 Apr 5;22(1):153. doi: 10.1186/s12951-024-02412-9.

Abstract

Background: Osteoporosis is characterized by an imbalance in bone homeostasis, resulting in the excessive dissolution of bone minerals due to the acidified microenvironment mediated by overactive osteoclasts. Oroxylin A (ORO), a natural flavonoid, has shown potential in reversing osteoporosis by inhibiting osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. The limited water solubility and lack of targeting specificity hinder the effective accumulation of Oroxylin A within the pathological environment of osteoporosis.

Results: Osteoclasts' microenvironment-responsive nanoparticles are prepared by incorporating Oroxylin A with amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) and coated with glutamic acid hexapeptide-modified phospholipids, aiming at reinforcing the drug delivery efficiency as well as therapeutic effect. The obtained smart nanoparticles, coined as OAPLG, could instantly neutralize acid and release Oroxylin A in the extracellular microenvironment of osteoclasts. The combination of Oroxylin A and ACC synergistically inhibits osteoclast formation and activity, leading to a significant reversal of systemic bone loss in the ovariectomized mice model.

Conclusion: The work highlights an intelligent nanoplatform based on ACC for spatiotemporally controlled release of lipophilic drugs, and illustrates prominent therapeutic promise against osteoporosis.

Keywords: Acidic microenvironment; Oroxylin A; Osteoporosis; Synergistic therapy; pH responsiveness.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bone Resorption* / drug therapy
  • Bone and Bones / pathology
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Mice
  • Nanomedicine
  • Osteoclasts
  • Osteoporosis* / drug therapy