Engineering biological interactions on the nanoscale

Abstract

Nanoparticulate platforms have contributed significantly to the field of biomedical research, demonstrating advantages over traditional modalities in areas such as drug delivery, detoxification, and vaccination. When it comes to the design of nanoparticles, biomimetic strategies have become increasingly popular as a means of promoting effective interactions with biological systems. A recently developed cell membrane-coated nanoparticle platform can leverage the natural interactions that cells engage in with other cells, the extracellular matrix, and biomolecules in order to reduce undesirable nonspecific interactions, while increasing target-specific interactions. Here, we discuss the current state of these biomimetic nanoparticles and highlight how they can be used for various biomedical applications.

Figure 1.

Cellular interactions leveraged for biomimetic nanoparticle design. Cells physically participate in a number of interactions, including with other cells through the engagement of surface receptors by membrane-bound ligands, with components of the extracellular matrix (ECM), and with biomolecules such as those involved in endogenous signaling or toxic compounds secreted by other organisms.

Figure 2.

Cell membrane-coated nanoparticles for nanodelivery. (a) RBC membrane-coated nanoparticles are functionalized with the surface markers from the original cell, which makes them well-suited for drug delivery due to their ability to circulate for extended periods of time in the bloodstream. Adapted with permission from [23]. (b) Platelet membrane-coated nanoparticles are immunocompatible and can target different disease substrates, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria and damaged vasculature. Adapted with permission from [32].

Figure 3.

Cell membrane-coated nanoparticles for detoxification. Platelet membrane-coated nanoparticles can bind to anti-platelet antibodies, diverting them away from healthy cells that would otherwise be opsonized and eliminated by the immune system. Adapted with permission from [53].

Figure 4.

Cell membrane-coated nanoparticles for toxoid vaccination. RBC membrane-coated nanoparticles can bind and neutralize pore-forming toxins secreted by bacteria. The resulting nanotoxoids can then be safely delivered as a vaccine, eliciting anti-toxin antibodies that can protect against infections. Adapted with permission from [60].