Hyaluronic Acid Nanoparticles with Parameters Required for In Vivo Applications: From Synthesis to Parametrization

Biomacromolecules. 2024 Aug 12;25(8):4934-4945. doi: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00370. Epub 2024 Jun 29.

Abstract

Hyaluronic acid is an excellent biocompatible material for in vivo applications. Its ability to bind CD44, a cell receptor involved in numerous biological processes, predetermines HA-based nanomaterials as unique carrier for therapeutic and theranostic applications. Although numerous methods for the synthesis of hyaluronic acid nanoparticles (HANPs) are available today, their low reproducibility and wide size distribution hinder the precise assessment of the effect on the organism. A robust and reproducible approach for producing HANPs that meet strict criteria for in vivo applications (e.g., to lung parenchyma) remains challenging. We designed and evaluated four protocols for the preparation of HANPs with those required parameters. The HA molecule was cross-linked by novel combinations of carbodiimide, and four different amine-containing compounds resulted in monodisperse HANPs with a low polydispersity index. By a complex postsynthetic characterization, we confirmed that the prepared HANPs meet the criteria for inhaled therapeutic delivery and other in vivo applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biocompatible Materials / chemical synthesis
  • Biocompatible Materials / chemistry
  • Humans
  • Hyaluronan Receptors / metabolism
  • Hyaluronic Acid* / chemistry
  • Nanoparticles* / chemistry
  • Particle Size

Substances

  • Hyaluronic Acid
  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Hyaluronan Receptors