Beta 2 glycoprotein I is a major protein associated with very rapidly cleared liposomes in vivo, suggesting a significant role in the immune clearance of "non-self" particles

The role of protein corona on nanodrugs for organ-targeting and its prospects of application

Nowadays, nanodrugs become a hotspot in the high-end medical field. They have the ability to deliver drugs to reach their destination more effectively due to their unique properties and flexible functionalization. However, the fate of nanodrugs in vivo is not the same as those presented in vitro, which indeed influenced their therapeutic efficacy in vivo. When entering the biological organism, nanodrugs will first come into contact with biological fluids and then be covered by some biomacromolecules, especially proteins. The proteins adsorbed on the surface of nanodrugs are known as protein corona (PC), which causes the loss of prospective organ-targeting abilities. Fortunately, the reasonable utilization of PC may determine the organ-targeting efficiency of systemically administered nanodrugs based on the diverse expression of receptors on cells in different organs. In addition, the nanodrugs for local administration targeting diverse lesion sites will also form unique PC, which plays an important role in the therapeutic effect of nanodrugs. This article introduced the formation of PC on the surface of nanodrugs and summarized the recent studies about the roles of diversified proteins adsorbed on nanodrugs and relevant protein for organ-targeting receptor through different administration pathways, which may deepen our understanding of the role that PC played on organ-targeting and improve the therapeutic efficacy of nanodrugs to promote their clinical translation.

Protein adsorption determines pulmonary cell uptake of lipid-based nanoparticles

The inhalable administration of lipid nanoparticles is an effective strategy for localised delivery of therapeutics against various lung diseases. Of this, improved intracellular delivery of pharmaceuticals for infectious disease and cancer management is of high significance. However, the influence of lipid nanoparticle composition and structure on uptake in pulmonary cell lines, especially in the presence of biologically relevant media is poorly understood. Here, the uptake of lamellar (liposomes) versus non-lamellar (cubosomes) lipid nanoparticles in macrophages and lung epithelial cells was quantified and the influence of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), containing native pulmonary protein and surfactant molecules is determined. Cubosome uptake in both macrophages and epithelial cells was strongly mediated by a high percentage of molecular function regulatory and binding proteins present within the protein corona. In contrast, the protein corona did not influence the uptake of liposomes in epithelial cells. In macrophages, the proteins mediated a rapid internalisation, followed by exocytosis of liposomes after 6 h incubation. These findings on the influence of biological fluid in regulating lipid nanoparticle uptake mechanisms may guide future development of optimal intracellular delivery systems for therapeutics via the pulmonary route.

The protein corona modulates the inflammation inhibition by cationic nanoparticles via cell-free DNA scavenging

A central paradigm in nanomedicine is that when synthetic nanoparticles (NPs) enter the body, they are immediately cloaked by a corona of macromolecules (mostly proteins) that mediates the role of the physico-chemical properties in the NP biological functions (the “coronation paradigm”). In this work, we focused on the assessment of the “coronation paradigm” for cationic NPs (cNPs) used as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) drugs due to their ability to scavenge cell-free DNA (cfDNA). We fabricated series of cNPs uniformly coated with single or di-hydroxyl groups and different types of amino groups and showed that hydroxylated nanoparticles displayed a prolonged retention in inflamed joints and greater anti-inflammatory effect in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rats than the non-hydroxylated analogues. Especially, the cNPs with secondary amines and a di-hydroxyl shell showed the best performance among the tested cNPs. Proteomic analysis showed that the cNPs with a di-hydroxyl shell adsorbed less opsonin proteins than the cNPs carrying mono hydroxyl groups and non-hydroxylated ones, which may provide a mechanistic explanation for the different biodistribution profiles of cNPs. Thus, this study suggests that the protein corona mediates the effects of the surface chemistry on the fate and functions of cNPs as anti-RA drugs.

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cNPs with hydroxyl shell decreased side-effects to cells and CIA rats without decreasing the ability to scavenge cfDNA.

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Hydroxyl shell reduced the adsorption of proteins, thus prolonged the circulation and site accumulation of cNPs.

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The composition of the protein corona formed onto the cNPs in the serum can be modulated by their synthetic identity.

Lipoprotein Proteomics and Aortic Valve Transcriptomics Identify Biological Pathways Linking Lipoprotein(a) Levels to Aortic Stenosis

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is one of the most important risk factors for the development of calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS). However, the mechanisms through which Lp(a) causes CAVS are currently unknown. Our objectives were to characterize the Lp(a) proteome and to identify proteins that may be differentially associated with Lp(a) in patients with versus without CAVS. Our second objective was to identify genes that may be differentially regulated by exposure to high versus low Lp(a) levels in explanted aortic valves from patients with CAVS. We isolated Lp(a) from the blood of 21 patients with CAVS and 22 volunteers and performed untargeted label-free analysis of the Lp(a) proteome. We also investigated the transcriptomic signature of calcified aortic valves from patients who underwent aortic valve replacement with high versus low Lp(a) levels (n = 118). Proteins involved in the protein activation cascade, platelet degranulation, leukocyte migration, and response to wounding may be associated with Lp(a) depending on CAVS status. The transcriptomic analysis identified genes involved in cardiac aging, chondrocyte development, and inflammation as potentially influenced by Lp(a). Our multi-omic analyses identified biological pathways through which Lp(a) may cause CAVS, as well as key molecular events that could be triggered by Lp(a) in CAVS development.

Interactions between Beta-2-Glycoprotein-1 and Phospholipid Bilayer-A Molecular Dynamic Study

This study aims to investigate the interactions appearing when the beta-2-glycoprotein-1 binds to a lipid bilayer. The inter- and intra-molecular forces acting between the two macromolecular systems have been investigated using a molecular dynamics simulation method. The importance of water bridges has also been addressed. Additionally, the viscoelastic response of the bilayer has been studied. In detail, the (saturated-chain) 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC) and (unsaturated-chain) 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (POPE) bilayers have been chosen to test their behavior near the protein. Both of the lipids have a polar head but different chemical structures and are similar to the main phospholipids present in the synovial fluid. This study is meaningful for further explaining the worsening friction properties in articular cartilage, as the inactivation of phospholipid bilayers by beta-2-glycoprotein-1 is believed to be a cause of the destruction of cartilage in most rheumatic diseases and osteoarthritis. It was found that the protein binds stronger to the DPPC bilayer than to the POPE, but in both cases, it has the potential to change the local bilayer stability. Nevertheless, the binding forces are placed within a small area (only a few lipids contribute to the binding, creating many interactions). However, together, they are not stronger than the covalent bonds between C-O, thus, potentially, it is possible to push the lipids into the bilayer but detaching the lipids' heads from the tail is not possible. Additionally, the protein causes water displacement from the vicinity of the bilayer, and this may be a contributor to the instability of the bilayer (disrupting the water bridges needed for the stabilization of the bilayer, especially in the case of DPPC where the heads are not so well stabilized by H-bonds as they are in POPE). Moreover, it was found that the diffusivity of lipids in the DPPC bilayer bound to the protein is significantly different from the diffusivity of the ones which are not in contact with the protein. The POPE bilayer is stiffer due to intramolecular interactions, which are stronger than in the DPPC; thus, the viscous to elastic effects in the POPE case are more significant than in the case of the DPPC. It is, therefore, harder to destabilize the POPE bilayer than the DPPC one.

The antiphospholipid syndrome - often overlooked cause of vascular occlusions?

The antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) was fully recognized as a clinical entity in the early 1980s. Still, more than 30 years later, the epidemiology of APS is not well described, and furthermore, APS remains a challenge in terms of both diagnostic issues and clinical praxis involving a wide range of specialties. To date, there are no diagnostic criteria for APS. The present classification criteria rely on a combination of clinical manifestations and persistently positive tests for antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Clinical symptoms comprise vascular thrombosis, which can affect any vascular bed, including venous, microvascular and arterial vessels, and a set of pregnancy morbidities including early and late miscarriages, foetal death and preeclampsia. APS is more frequent among patients with other autoimmune diseases, and it is especially common in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Importantly, APS symptoms can present in almost any medical specialty, but general knowledge and most previous clinical studies have essentially been confined to haematology, rheumatology and obstetrics/gynaecology. However, recent data demonstrate a relatively high prevalence of aPL also in patients from the general population who suffer from vascular occlusions or pregnancy complications. It is important that these patients are recognized by the general health care since APS is a treatable condition. This review aims to summarize the present knowledge on the history, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and treatment of APS in order to urge a wide range of clinicians to consider comprehensive assessment of all patients where the diagnosis APS may be conceivable.

Exosomes: Revisiting their role as "garbage bags"

In recent years, the term "extracellular vesicle" (EV) has been used to define different types of vesicles released by various cells. It includes plasma membrane-derived vesicles (ectosomes/microvesicles) and endosome-derived vesicles (exosomes). Although it remains difficult to evaluate the compartment of origin of the two kinds of vesicles once released, it is critical to discriminate these vesicles because their mode of biogenesis is probably directly related to their physiologic function and/or to the physio-pathologic state of the producing cell. The purpose of this review is to specifically consider exosome secretion and its consequences in terms of a material loss for producing cells, rather than on the effects of exosomes once they are taken up by recipient cells. I especially describe one putative basic function of exosomes, that is, to convey material out of cells for off-site degradation by recipient cells. As illustrated by some examples, these components could be evacuated from cells for various reasons, for example, to promote "differentiation" or enhance homeostatic responses. This basic function might explain why so many diseases have made use of the exosomal pathway during pathogenesis.

Long circulating liposomes: challenges and opportunities

The poor pharmacokinetic parameters and low solubility of many anticancer therapeutics have warranted the use of drug-delivery systems such as liposomes. Overcoming some drawbacks of the conventional liposomes, targeted liposomal delivery by longer circulation time by addition of poly(ethylene glycol) to the liposomal surface and further adding specific ligands to achieve ligand selective retention and uptake has been introduced. PEGylated liposomes are the only second-generation liposomal formulations in clinical use and are now being challenged with the allergenic response they pose even in the treatment of naive patients. This article will review the challenges and hindrances in the use of long circulating liposomes and explore the opportunities to overcome this issue.

Effect of nanoparticle size and PEGylation on the protein corona of PLGA nanoparticles

Upon intravenous administration of nanoparticles (NP) into the bloodstream, proteins bind rapidly on their surface resulting in a formation of a so-called 'Protein Corona'. These proteins are strongly attached to the NP surface and provide a new biological identity which is crucial for the reaction at the nano-biointerface. The structure and composition of the protein corona is greatly determined by the physico-chemical properties of the NP and the characteristics of the biological environment. The overall objective of this study was to characterize the role of NP size/surface curvature and PEGylation on the formation of the protein corona. Therefore, we prepared NP in a size of 100 and 200 nm using the biodegradable polymers poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide)-co-polyethylene glycol diblock (PLGA-PEG) and subsequently incubated them with fetal bovine serum (FBS) to induce the formation of a protein corona. After removal of unbound protein, we employed different analytical approaches to study the corona in detail. Sodium dodecylsulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) was performed to gain a first impression about amount and composition of the corona proteins. Identification was carried out after tryptic in-solution digestion and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). In addition, we successfully established the Bradford protein assay as a suitable colorimetric method to quantify total adsorbed protein amount after alkaline hydrolysis of PLGA based NP. Our results revealed that protein adsorption on PLGA- and PLGA-PEG-NP didn't depend on NP size within the range of 100 and 200 nm. PEGylation led to a significant reduced amount of bound proteins. The depletion of proteins which are involved in immune response was remarkable and indicated a prolonged circulation time in body.

Biodistribution, Clearance, and Long-Term Fate of Clinically Relevant Nanomaterials

Realization of the immense potential of nanomaterials for biomedical applications will require a thorough understanding of how they interact with cells, tissues, and organs. There is evidence that, depending on their physicochemical properties and subsequent interactions, nanomaterials are indeed taken up by cells. However, the subsequent release and/or intracellular degradation of the materials, transfer to other cells, and/or translocation across tissue barriers are still poorly understood. The involvement of these cellular clearance mechanisms strongly influences the long-term fate of used nanomaterials, especially if one also considers repeated exposure. Several nanomaterials, such as liposomes and iron oxide, gold, or silica nanoparticles, are already approved by the American Food and Drug Administration for clinical trials; however, there is still a huge gap of knowledge concerning their fate in the body. Herein, clinically relevant nanomaterials, their possible modes of exposure, as well as the biological barriers they must overcome to be effective are reviewed. Furthermore, the biodistribution and kinetics of nanomaterials and their modes of clearance are discussed, knowledge of the long-term fates of a selection of nanomaterials is summarized, and the critical points that must be considered for future research are addressed.

Proteomic analysis to identify candidate biomarkers associated with type 1 diabetes

PURPOSE

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1) is one of the most common chronic diseases observed during childhood. The incidence of DM1 is increasing worldwide, and there is currently no way to prevent or delay the onset or to cure the disease. Most diseases, including diabetes, stem from abnormalities in the functioning of proteins, and some studies have reported the expression of protein variation to be involved in the development of DM1. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the differential expression of serum proteins in patients with DM1.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Serum of patients with DM1 (n=30) and healthy controls (n=30) was collected. A proteomic approach was used with depletion of albumin and immunoglobulin G chromatography on serum samples followed by data-independent, label-free mass spectrometric analysis.

RESULTS

A total of eight serum proteins were identified as being differentially expressed and involved in the immune system, lipid metabolism, and pathways of coagulation. DM1 was associated with the upregulation of six proteins: alpha-2-macroglobulin, apolipoprotein A-II, β2 glycoprotein I, Ig alpha-2 chain C region, alpha-1-microglobulin, and prothrombin. A total of two proteins were downregulated, including pregnancy zone protein and complement C4.

CONCLUSION

To the best of our knowledge, these findings show differential expression of proteins revealing new proteins that may be involved in the development and progression of diabetes.

Evolutionary conservation of the lipopolysaccharide binding site of β2-glycoprotein I

β2-Glycoprotein I (β2GPI) is a highly abundant plasma protein and the major antigen for autoantibodies in the antiphospholipid syndrome. Recently, we have described a novel function of β2GPI as scavenger of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). With this in mind we investigated the conservation of β2GPI in vertebrates and set out to identify the binding site of LPS within β2GPI. The genome sequences of 42 species were surveyed. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) was performed with peptides to characterise the binding site of β2GPI for LPS. β2GPI could be identified in most tested vertebrates with a high overall amino acid homology of 80% or more in mammals. SPR revealed that a synthesised peptide (LAFWKTDA) from domain V of β2GPI was able to compete for binding of β2GPI to LPS. The AFWKTDA sequence was completely conserved in all mammals. The peptide containing the LPS binding site attenuated the inhibition by β2GPI in a cellular model of LPS-induced tissue factor expression. Other important sites, such as the binding site for anionic phospholipids and the antiphospholipid antibody binding epitope, were also preserved. β2GPI is highly conserved across the animal kingdom, which suggests that the function of β2GPI may be more important than anticipated.

Interactions between Hepatitis C Virus and the Human Apolipoprotein H Acute Phase Protein: A Tool for a Sensitive Detection of the Virus

The Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection exhibits a high global prevalence frequently associated with hepatocellular carcinoma, taking years to develop. Despite the standardization of highly sensitive HCV quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) detection methods, false-negative diagnoses may be generated with current methods, mainly due to the presence of PCR inhibitors and/or low viral loads in the patient’s sample. These false-negative diagnoses impact both public health systems, in developing countries, and an in lesser extent, in developed countries, including both the risk of virus transmission during organ transplantation and/or blood transfusion and the quality of the antiviral treatment monitoring. To adopt an appropriate therapeutic strategy to improve the patient’s prognosis, it is urgent to increase the HCV detection sensitivity. Based upon previous studies on HBV, we worked on the capacity of the scavenger acute phase protein, Apolipoprotein H (ApoH) to interact with HCV. Using different approaches, including immunoassays, antibody-inhibition, oxidation, ultracentrifugation, electron microscopy and RT-PCR analyses, we demonstrated specific interactions between HCV particles and ApoH. Moreover, when using a two-step HCV detection process, including capture of HCV by ApoH-coated nanomagnetic beads and a home-made real-time HCV-RT-PCR, we confirmed the presence of HCV for all samples from a clinical collection of HCV-seropositive patients exhibiting an RT-PCR COBAS® TaqMan® HCV Test, v2.0 (COBAS)-positive result. In contrast, for HCV-seropositive patients with either low HCV-load as determined with COBAS or exhibiting HCV-negative COBAS results, the addition of the two-step ApoH-HCV-capture and HCV-detection process was able to increase the sensitivity of HCV detection or more interestingly, detect in a genotype sequence-independent manner, a high-proportion (44%) of HCV/RNA-positive among the COBAS HCV-negative patients. Thus, the immune interaction between ApoH and HCV could be used as a sample preparation tool to enrich and/or cleanse HCV patient’s samples to enhance the detection sensitivity of HCV and therefore significantly reduce the numbers of false-negative HCV diagnosis results.

Protein corona of nanoparticles: distinct proteins regulate the cellular uptake

Understanding nanoparticle-protein interactions is a crucial issue in the development of targeted nanomaterial delivery. Besides unraveling the composition of the nanoparticle's protein coronas, distinct proteins thereof could control nanoparticle uptake into specific cell types. Here we differentially analyzed the protein corona composition on four polymeric differently functionalized nanoparticles by label-free quantitative mass spectrometry. Next, we correlated the relative abundance of identified proteins in the corona with enhanced or decreased cellular uptake of nanoparticles into human cancer and bone marrow stem cells to identify key candidates. Finally, we verified these candidate proteins by artificially decorating nanoparticles with individual proteins showing that nanoparticles precoated with the apolipoproteins ApoA4 or ApoC3 significantly decreased the cellular uptake, whereas precoating with ApoH increased the cellular uptake.

An integrative omics strategy to assess the germ cell secretome and to decipher sertoli-germ cell crosstalk in the Mammalian testis

Mammalian spermatogenesis, which takes place in complex testicular structures called seminiferous tubules, is a highly specialized process controlled by the integration of juxtacrine, paracrine and endocrine information. Within the seminiferous tubules, the germ cells and Sertoli cells are surrounded by testicular fluid (TF), which probably contains most of the secreted proteins involved in crosstalk between these cells. It has already been established that germ cells can modulate somatic Sertoli cell function through the secretion of diffusible factors. We studied the germ cell secretome, which was previously considered inaccessible, by analyzing the TF collected by microsurgery in an “integrative omics” strategy combining proteomics, transcriptomics, genomics and interactomics data. This approach identified a set of proteins preferentially secreted by Sertoli cells or germ cells. An interaction network analysis revealed complex, interlaced cell-cell dialog between the secretome and membranome of seminiferous cells, mediated via the TF. We then focused on germ cell-secreted candidate proteins, and we identified several potential interacting partners located on the surface of Sertoli cells. Two interactions, APOH/CDC42 and APP/NGFR, were validated in situ, in a proximity ligation assay (PLA). Our results provide new insight into the crosstalk between germ cells and Sertoli cells occurring during spermatogenesis. Our findings also demonstrate that this “integrative omics” strategy is powerful enough for data mining and highlighting meaningful cell-cell communication events between different types of cells in a complex tissue, via a biological fluid. This integrative strategy could be applied more widely, to gain access to secretomes that have proved difficult to study whilst avoiding the limitations of in vitro culture.

Recent advances in liposomal nanohybrid cerasomes as promising drug nanocarriers

Liposomes have been extensively investigated as possible carriers for diagnostic or therapeutic agents due to their unique properties. However, liposomes still have not attained their full potential as drug and gene delivery vehicles because of their insufficient morphological stability. Recently, a super-stable and freestanding hybrid liposomal cerasome (partially ceramic- or silica-coated liposome) has drawn much attention as a novel drug delivery system because its atomic layer of polyorganosiloxane surface imparts higher morphological stability than conventional liposomes and its liposomal bilayer structure reduces the overall rigidity and density greatly compared to silica nanoparticles. Cerasomes are more biocompatible than silica nanoparticles due to the incorporation of the liposomal architecture into cerasomes. Cerasomes combine the advantages of both liposomes and silica nanoparticles but overcome their disadvantages so cerasomes are ideal drug delivery systems. The present review will first highlights some of the key advances of the past decade in the technology of cerasome production and then review current biomedical applications of cerasomes, with a view to stimulating further research in this area of study.

Surface polyethylene glycol conformation influences the protein corona of polyethylene glycol-modified single-walled carbon nanotubes: potential implications on biological performance

Investigation of the nanoparticle protein corona, the shell of plasma proteins formed around nanoparticles immediately after they enter the bloodstream, is a benchmark in the study of the applications of nanoparticles in all fields of medicine, from pharmacology to toxicology. We report the first investigation of the protein corona adsorbed onto single-walled carbon nanotubes modified with 2 kDa molecular weight polyethylene glycol chains [PEG(2k)-modified SWCNTs or PEG2-SWCNTs] by using a large-scale gel-based proteomics method on biological replicates. More than 240 plasma proteins were selected, and their differences were analyzed among PEG2-SWCNTs differing in surface charge and PEG conformation. The protein corona of PEG2-SWCNTs showed that coagulation proteins, immunoglobulins, apolipoproteins, and proteins of the complement system were among the proteins bound by PEG2-SWCNTs and that their recruitment was independent from the isoelectric point, molecular weight, total hydrophobicity, and number of polyaromatic residues of the proteins. Statistical analysis on protein relative abundance revealed that PEG conformation had a higher influence on the PEG2-SWCNTs' protein corona repertoire than nanotube surface charge. PEG conformation also affected the biological performance of PEG2-SWCNTs. A change in PEG conformation from mushroom to mushroom-brush transition affected the competitive adsorption of the major constituents of the protein corona of PEG2-SWCNTs and promoted shorter blood circulation time, faster renal excretion, and higher relative spleen versus liver uptake of PEG2-SWCNTs. Our data suggest that the protein corona, along with steric stabilization, may mediate the action of PEG conformation on the pharmacokinetic profile of PEG-modified SWCNTs.

Second generation liposomal cancer therapeutics: transition from laboratory to clinic

Recent innovations and developments in nanotechnology have revolutionized cancer therapeutics. Engineered nanomaterials are the current workhorses in the emerging field of cancer nano-therapeutics. Lipid vesicles bearing anti-tumor drugs have turned out to be a clinically feasible and promising nano-therapeutic approach to treat cancer. Efficient entrapment of therapeutics, biocompatibility, biodegradability, low systemic toxicity, low immunogenicity and ability to bypass multidrug resistance mechanisms has made liposomes a versatile drug/gene delivery system in cancer chemotherapy. The present review attempts to explore the recent key advances in liposomal research and the vast arsenal of liposomal formulations currently being utilized in treatment and diagnosis of cancer.

Cell damage at the origin of antiphospholipid antibodies and their pathogenic potential in recurrent pregnancy loss

Antiphospholipid antibodies (APA) are associated with thrombosis, thrombocytopenia and fetal loss but they occur in a variety of diseases. Despite many efforts, a correlation between the specificity of particular subgroups of APA and particular clinical situations remains to be established. The antigens at the origin of APA remain to be identified. We discuss here the possible links between cell apoptosis or necrosis, leading to plasma membrane alterations, and the occurrence of APA in response to sustained stimulation. The pathogenic potential of APA is also considered with respect to recurrent pregnancy loss.

Factors controlling nanoparticle pharmacokinetics: an integrated analysis and perspective

Intravenously injected nanoparticulate drug carriers provide a wide range of unique opportunities for site-specific targeting of therapeutic agents to many areas within the vasculature and beyond. Pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of these carriers are controlled by a complex array of interrelated core and interfacial physicochemical and biological factors. Pertinent to realizing therapeutic goals, definitive maps that establish the interdependency of nanoparticle size, shape, and surface characteristics in relation to interfacial forces, biodistribution, controlled drug release, excretion, and adverse effects must be outlined. These concepts are critically evaluated and an integrated perspective is provided on the basis of the recent application of nanoscience approaches to nanocarrier design and engineering. The future of this exciting field is bright; some regulatory-approved products are already on the market and many are in late-phase clinical trials. With concomitant advances in extensive computational knowledge of the genomics and epigenomics of interindividual variations in drug responses, the boundaries toward development of personalized nanomedicines can be pushed further.

An in vitro assay based on surface plasmon resonance to predict the in vivo circulation kinetics of liposomes

The adsorption of blood proteins onto liposomes and other colloidal particles is an important process influencing the circulation time. Proteins adsorbed to the surface of liposomes can mediate recognition of the liposomes by macrophages of the reticuloendothelial system (RES) facilitating their clearance from the circulation. Coating liposomes with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) decreases the blood clearance considerably, most likely due to reduced protein adsorption and/or liposome aggregation. By using the relation between clearance and protein binding, the present study introduces an in vitro assay measuring interactions of liposomes with proteins to predict their blood clearance in vivo. Such assay is valuable since it limits time and costs, and importantly reduces the number of animals required for pharmacokinetic investigations of new formulations. In the current study, Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) and fluorescence Single Particle Tracking (fSPT) were used to study liposome-protein interactions and blood induced liposome aggregation in vitro. By means of SPR the interactions between proteins and liposomes coated with PEG of different molecular weights and at different densities (PEG(2000) in 2.5%, 5% and 7%; PEG(5000) in 0.5%, 1.5% and 2.5%), were measured for several plasma proteins: human serum albumin (HSA), apolipoprotein E (ApoE), α2-macroglobulin (α2-M), β2-glycoprotein (β2-G) and fibronectin (Fn). Liposomes coated with PEG interacted less with all proteins, an effect which increased with the PEG surface density. In parallel, fSPT analysis showed that the exposure of liposomes to full blood did not change the liposome size, indicating that aggregation is not a strong attributive factor in the clearance of these liposomes. In addition, the SPR measurements of the interactions between liposomes and proteins were correlated with the blood clearance of the liposomes. For each protein, the degree of protein-liposome interaction as determined by SPR showed a moderate to strong positive correlation with the clearance of the liposome type.

β₂-glycoprotein I: a novel component of innate immunity

Sepsis is a systemic host response to invasive infection by bacteria. Despite treatment with antibiotics, current mortality rates are in the range of 20%-25%, which makes sepsis the most important cause of death in intensive care. Gram-negative bacteria are a prominent cause of sepsis. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), one of the major constituents of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, plays a major role in activating the host's immune response by binding to monocytes and other cells. Several proteins are involved in neutralization and clearance of LPS from the bloodstream. Here, we provide evidence that β₂-glycoprotein I (β₂GPI) is a scavenger of LPS. In vitro, β₂GPI inhibited LPS-induced expression of tissue factor and IL-6 from monocytes and endothelial cells. Binding of β₂GPI to LPS caused a conformational change in β₂GPI that led to binding of the β₂GPI-LPS complex to monocytes and ultimately clearance of this complex. Furthermore, plasma levels of β₂GPI were inversely correlated with temperature rise and the response of inflammatory markers after a bolus injection of LPS in healthy individuals. Together, these observations provide evidence that β₂GPI is involved in the neutralization and clearance of LPS and identify β₂GPI as a component of innate immunity.

Interactions of nanoparticles with plasma proteins: implication on clearance and toxicity of drug delivery systems

INTRODUCTION

Intravenously injected nanoparticles, like any other foreign pathogen that enters the body, encounter multiple lines of defense intended to neutralize and eliminate the invading substance. Adsorption of plasma proteins on the nanoparticle surface is the first barrier of defense, which could lead to physical changes in the formulation, such as aggregation and charge neutralization, biochemical activation of defense cascades, and trigger elimination by multiple types of phagocytic cell.

AREAS COVERED

In this review, recent knowledge on the mechanisms that govern the interactions of nanoparticles (micelles, liposomes, polymeric and inorganic nanoparticles) with plasma proteins is discussed. In particular, the role of the nanoparticle surface properties and protective polymer coating in these interactions is described. The mechanisms of protein adsorption on different nanoparticles are analyzed and the implications on the clearance, toxicity and efficacy of drug delivery are discussed. The review provides readers with the biological insight into the plasma/blood interactions of nanoparticles.

EXPERT OPINION

The immune recognition of nanoparticles can seriously affect the drug delivery efficacy and toxicity. There is at present not enough knowledge on the mechanisms that dictate the nanoparticle immune recognition and stability in the biological milieu. Understanding the mechanisms of recognition will become an important part of nanoparticle design.

Nano to micro delivery systems: targeting angiogenesis in brain tumors

Treating brain tumors using inhibitors of angiogenesis is extensively researched and tested in clinical trials. Although anti-angiogenic treatment holds a great potential for treating primary and secondary brain tumors, no clinical treatment is currently approved for brain tumor patients. One of the main hurdles in treating brain tumors is the blood brain barrier - a protective barrier of the brain, which prevents drugs from entering the brain parenchyma. As most therapeutics are excluded from the brain there is an urgent need to develop delivery platforms which will bypass such hurdles and enable the delivery of anti-angiogenic drugs into the tumor bed. Such delivery systems should be able to control release the drug or a combination of drugs at a therapeutic level for the desired time. In this mini-review we will discuss the latest improvements in nano and micro drug delivery platforms that were designed to deliver inhibitors of angiogenesis to the brain.

The measurement of lysosomal phospholipase A2 activity in plasma

A deficiency of lysosomal phospholipase A2 (LPLA2) causes macrophage-associated phospholipidosis, suggesting that the enzyme is important in the lipid catabolism. Because LPLA2 is secreted by macrophages, extracellular LPLA2 activity may potentially reflect a change in macrophage activation. In this report, the detection of LPLA2 activity in plasma was established by the measurement of the transacylase activity of LPLA2 under acidic conditions. No transacylase activity of LPLA2 was detected in normal human plasma when the plasma was incubated with liposomes consisting of 1,2-dioleoylphosphatidylcholine/sulfatide/N-acetylsphingosine (NAS) at pH 4.5. However, the transacylase activity in the plasma was detected when liposomes consisting of 1,2-dioleoylphosphatidylglycerol/NAS were used as a substrate. To establish the specificity of the assay, ceramide transacylase activity was detected in the plasma of wild-type mice. By contrast, the plasma obtained from LPLA2-knockout mice had no measurable transacylase activity under the same conditions. The enzymatic activity of recombinant LPLA2 was inhibited by treatment with methylarachidonylfluorophosphonate. The inhibitor also suppressed the transacylase activity observed in both normal human and wild-type mouse plasma, establishing that the transacylase activity observed in plasma is due to LPLA2. Plasma LPLA2 activity may be a useful bioassay marker for the identification of LPLA2-related disorders.

Ro 60 functions as a receptor for beta(2)-glycoprotein I on apoptotic cells

OBJECTIVE

The autoantigens 60-kd Ro/SSA (Ro 60) and beta(2)-glycoprotein I (beta(2)GPI) are both displayed on the surface membrane of apoptotic cells. Epitope-spreading experiments have suggested that these autoantigens may be present as a complex on the apoptotic cell surface. This study was undertaken to investigate whether beta(2)GPI interacts with Ro 60 on apoptotic cells and alters the binding of anti-Ro 60 IgG.

METHODS

The interaction between soluble recombinant Ro 60 fragments and beta(2)GPI was investigated in vitro by direct and saturation binding assays using native human beta(2)GPI and recombinant domain deletion mutants. Binding of beta(2)GPI to early and late apoptotic cells was assessed by multiparameter flow cytometry, and specificity of binding was determined by competitive inhibition with soluble recombinant Ro 60 and anti-Ro 60 IgG.

RESULTS

The Ro 60 fragment expressing a surface-exposed epitope (apotope) bound with high affinity (K(d) = approximately 15 nM) to domain V of beta(2)GPI in vitro. Beta(2)-glycoprotein I bound to the surface of apoptotic cells in a dose-dependent manner and was blocked by the Ro 60 apotope fragment. In reciprocal competitive inhibition studies, beta(2)GPI blocked the binding of anti-Ro 60 autoantibodies to apoptotic cells in a dose-dependent manner, and anti-Ro 60 IgG inhibited the binding of beta(2)GPI. Moreover, beta(2)GPI showed a 2-fold increase in binding to apoptotic cells that overexpress Ro 60 on the surface.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that Ro 60 functions as a novel receptor for beta(2)GPI on the surface of apoptotic cells. The formation of Ro 60-beta(2)GPI complexes may protect against anti-Ro 60 autoantibody-mediated tissue injury.

Liposome Opsonization

Adsorption of serum proteins to the liposomal surface plays a critical role in the clearance of liposomes from the blood circulation. In this review, we will discuss the role of the liposomal opsonins proposed so far in liposome clearance. Additional, related topics that will be addressed are the cell-surface receptors that might be involved in liposome elimination from the blood compartment and the effect of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) modification on prevention of liposome opsonization.

Interaction of beta2-glycoprotein 1 with phosphatidylserine-containing membranes: ligand-dependent conformational alterations initiate bivalent binding

Beta2-glycoprotein 1 (beta2GP1), a 50 kDa serum glycoprotein that binds anionic phospholipid-containing membranes, plays a regulatory role in physiology and pathology. The protein is a member of the short consensus repeat (SCR) superfamily containing four typical repeating domains and an aberrant fifth domain constructed into an SCR-like core at the C-terminus. To investigate the contribution of the individual domains to the binding of beta2GP1, a series of sequential domain-deleted recombinant protein fragments were generated and assessed for their interaction with PS-containing vesicles. Spectral analyses of lipid binding-dependent alterations in tryptophan emission spectra revealed that the (single) tryptophan residues of the individual domains underwent binding-dependent conformational alterations. Depending on the ionic strength, some domains moved from polar to nonpolar environments, while others moved from less polar to more polar environments. Analysis of a series of acrylamide quenching and resonance energy transfer experiments indicated that the binding of N-terminal domain 1 to PS membranes exists in two, ionic strength-dependent, conformations. At low ionic strengths, domain 1 bound to the vesicles and induced their precipitation and/or aggregation. At physiologic ionic strengths, domain 1 detached from the membrane surface while the remaining domains maintained their association with the membrane. Under these conditions, membrane-bound conformationally altered domain 1 projects away from the membrane surface, enabling it to interact with other proteins and/or cell surface ligands or receptors.

Coalescence of phospholipid membranes as a possible origin of anticoagulant effect of serum proteins

Interactions between phospholipid membranes (made of palmitoyloleoylphosphatidylcholine, cardiolipin and cholesterol) after addition of beta2 glycoprotein I (beta2GPI) or anti-beta2GPI antibodies or a mixture of both were studied by observing giant phospholipid vesicles under the phase contrast microscope. Both, negatively charged and neutral vesicles coalesced into complexes and adhered to the bottom of the observation chamber in the presence of beta2GPI in solution. Anti-beta2GPIs alone or previously mixed with beta2GPI caused coalescence of charged but not neutral vesicles, i.e. for neutral membranes the effect of beta2GPI was abolished by the presence of anti-beta2GPIs. Since the presence of the above adhesion mediators can prevent fragmentation of the membrane we propose a (new) possible anticoagulant mechanism for some serum proteins by preventing the release of prothrombogenic microexovesicles into circulation.

Nanofabricated particles for engineered drug therapies: a preliminary biodistribution study of PRINT nanoparticles

A novel method for the fabrication of polymeric particles on the order of tens of nanometers to several microns is described. This imprint lithographic technique called PRINT (Particle Replication In Non-wetting Templates), takes advantage of the unique properties of elastomeric molds comprised of a low surface energy perfluoropolyether network, allowing the production of monodisperse, shape-specific nanoparticles from an extensive array of organic precursors. This engineered nature of particle production has a number of advantages over the construction of traditional nanoparticles such as liposomes, dendrimers, and colloidal precipitates. The gentle "top down" approach of PRINT enables the simultaneous and independent control over particle size and shape, composition, and surface functionality, and permits the loading of delicate cargos such as small organic therapeutics and biological macromolecules. Thus, this single tool serves as a comprehensive platform for the rational design and investigation of new nanocarriers in medicine, having applications ranging from therapeutics to advanced diagnostics. Preliminary in vitro and in vivo studies were conducted, demonstrating the future utility of PRINT particles as delivery vectors in nanomedicine. Monodisperse 200 nm poly(ethylene glycol)-based (PEG) particles were fabricated using PRINT methodology and characterized via scanning electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. Incubation with HeLa cells showed very little cytotoxicity, even at high concentrations. The biodistribution and pharmacokinetics of [(125)I]-labeled particles were studied in healthy mice following bolus tail vein administration. The particles were distributed mainly to the liver and the spleen with an apparent distribution t(1/2) of approximately 17 min followed by slow redistribution with a t(1/2) of 3.3 h. The volume of distribution for the central and peripheral compartments was found to be approximately 3 mL and 5 mL, respectively.

Anti-PEG IgM elicited by injection of liposomes is involved in the enhanced blood clearance of a subsequent dose of PEGylated liposomes

Earlier we reported that PEGylated liposomes lose their long-circulating characteristic when they are administrated twice in the same animal with certain intervals (referred to as the accelerated blood clearance (ABC) phenomenon). We proposed that anti-PEG IgM, induced by the PEGylated liposomes, is responsible for the phenomenon, based on the observation that IgM thus produced selectively binds to the surface of PEGylated liposomes, subsequently leading to substantial complement activation. Interestingly, we found that under certain circumstances administration of conventional liposomes without PEG-coating also caused a strong ABC response upon injection of a second dose of PEGylated liposomes, but not of conventional liposomes. This suggests that also conventional liposomes not modified with PEG can promote an IgM response against PEG. We report here that, irrespective of the presence or absence PEG-coating, a single first dose of liposomes is capable of inducing a strong anti-PEG IgM response and, under certain circumstances, also weak responses against other lipid components. A good correspondence was observed between the amount of IgM associating with both PEGylated and conventional liposomes, concomitant complement activation triggered by those liposomes and the magnitude of the ABC phenomenon against those liposomes. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the ABC phenomenon is fully attributable to production of anti-PEG IgM by the first dose of liposomes and the subsequent complement activation upon a second dose of PEGylated but not conventional liposomes. Although the responsible immunogenic epitopes of the liposomes remain to be determined, the immunogenicity of 'empty' liposomes presents a serious concern in the development of liposomal formulations and their use in the clinic. Furthermore, our findings as described here raise important concerns with regard to the safety and efficiency of liposomes currently under development for clinical use.

Physiopathologie du lupus érythémateux systémique

Innate immunity is directly implicated in the pathophysiology of lupus through the dendritic cell system and the activation by immune complexes of some toll-like receptors (TLR). Interferon-alpha plays a key role in the pathophysiology of lupus and represents a promising target for immune therapy. Dendritic cells are activated and able to capture large quantities of nuclear antigen-containing bodies to stimulate specific adaptive immune response.

Pathogenic role of anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies on human placenta: functional effects related to implantation and roles of heparin

Most of the clinical manifestations of the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) can be related to thrombotic events; however, placental thrombosis cannot explain all of the pregnancy complications that occur in women with this syndrome. In this regard, it has been hypothesized that antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies can directly attack trophoblasts, but it is still unclear what pathogenetic mechanisms play a role and which aPL antibodies subpopulations are involved. Although it has been assumed that aPL antibodies are directed against anionic phospholipids (PLs), current advances in the field suggest that antibodies to PL-binding plasma protein such as beta2-glycoprotein-I (beta2-GPI) are the clinically relevant aPL antibodies. It appears that following the attachment of beta2-GPI to PLs, both molecules undergo conformational changes that result in the exposure of cryptic epitopes within the structure of beta2-GPI allowing the subsequent binding of antibodies. aPL antibodies detected by anti-beta2-GPI assays are associated with fetal loss. However, there is still debate on how the antibodies might induce the obstetrical manifestations. The significantly improved outcome of pregnancies treated with heparin has stimulated interest in the drug's mechanisms of action. Several mechanisms could explain its beneficial effects, because in addition to a direct effect of heparin on the coagulation cascade, it might protect pregnancies by reducing the binding of aPL antibodies, reducing inflammation, facilitating implantation and/or inhibiting complement activation. Further investigations are needed to better understand how aPL antibodies induce obstetric complications and to better clarify the functional role of heparin in the human placenta leading to more successful therapeutic options.

Parameters influencing the stealthiness of colloidal drug delivery systems

Over the last few decades, colloidal drug delivery systems (CDDS) such as nano-structures have been developed in order to improve the efficiency and the specificity of drug action. Their small size permits them to be injected intravenously in order to reach target tissues. However, it is known that they can be rapidly removed from blood circulation by the immune system. CDDS are removed via the complement system and via the cells of the mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS), after their recognition by opsonins and/or receptors present at the cell surface. This recognition is dependent on the physicochemical characteristics of the CDDS. In this study, we will focus on parameters influencing the interactions of opsonins and the macrophage plasma membrane with the surface of CDDS, whereby parameters of the polymer coating become necessary to provide good protection.

Oxidized β2-glycoprotein I induces human dendritic cell maturation and promotes a T helper type 1 response

The human plasma protein β2-glycoprotein I (β2-GPI) is the most common target for antiphospholipid antibodies associated with thrombotic events in chronic disorders related to endothelial cell dysfunction. Crucial information is needed to clarify why this self-abundant protein is targeted by autoimmune responses. In this study, we investigated whether oxidative modification of β2-GPI, either spontaneous in culture wells or induced by treatment with H2O2, renders this self-protein able to activate immature monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) from healthy human donors. Oxidized β2-GPI caused DCs to mature so that CD83 appeared and CD80, CD86, human leukocyte antigen-D region related (HLA-DR), and CD40 increased. The interaction between oxidized β2-GPI and DCs specifically stimulated these cells to secrete interleukin 12 (IL-12), IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and IL-10. Oxidized β2-GPI-stimulated DCs had increased allostimulatory ability and primed naive T lymphocytes, thus inducing T helper 1 (Th1) polarization. The interaction between oxidized β2-GPI and DCs involved interleukin-1 receptor associated kinase (IRAK) phosphorylation and nuclear factor κB (NFκB) activation. Pretreatment of β2-GPI with the antioxidant α-tocopherol prevented DC maturation. These findings show that human oxidized β2-GPI, probably by interacting with a member of the Toll-like receptor (TLR) family, causes DCs to mature. Because this key β2-GPI function requires oxidative modification, in several chronic disorders related to endothelial cell dysfunction oxidative stress might trigger the “autoimmune spiral.”

Research around beta 2-glycoprotein I: a major target for antiphospholipid antibodies

Beta2-glycoprotein I (beta2GPI), a phospholipid-binding protein, is one of the major target antigens for antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) found in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Thrombophilic disorders in APS patients are strongly associated with aPL, and their pathogenic properties depend on the presence of beta2GPI. Procoagulant cell stimulation by aPL, via beta2GPI, is one of the most plausible mechanisms of thrombosis in APS, and p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway plays a crucial role in such activation. beta2GPI is proteolytically cleaved in domain V by activated factor X or plasmin, leading to the generation of the nicked form of beta2GPI. Recently, increasing attention is focused on the role of nicked-beta2GPI as a regulator of extrinsic fibrinolysis pathway.

Membrane binding of beta2-glycoprotein I can be described by a two-state reaction model: an atomic force microscopy and surface plasmon resonance study

Complexes formed between beta2GPI (beta2-glycoprotein I), a human plasma protein, and biological membranes are considered to be targets of macrophages and antiphospholipid autoantibodies involved in autoimmune diseases, such as antiphospholipid syndrome or systemic lupus erythematosus. The positively charged lysine-rich fifth domain of beta2GPI facilitates its interaction with phospholipid membranes containing acidic phospholipids, which normally become exposed by apoptotic processes. In the present study, atomic force microscopy was applied to visualize the binding of beta2GPI to a mixed phospholipid model membrane at physiological ionic strength. On supported lipid bilayers the formation of supramolecular assemblies of the protein with a height of approx. 3.3 nm was observed, suggesting a lateral agglomeration of beta2GPI. Detailed analysis of kinetic constants using surface plasmon resonance revealed that the binding can be described by a two-state reaction model, i.e. a very fast interaction step, depending on the content of acidic phospholipids in the bilayer, and a second step with significantly lower k(on) and k(off) values. Taken together, our results suggest a biphasic interaction mechanism: a fast step of beta2GPI binding to negatively charged lipids, mainly based on electrostatic interactions, and a slower phase of agglomeration of the protein on the bilayer surface accompanied by a protein-induced rigidification of the membrane, as revealed by electron paramagnetic resonance.

Quantitative determination of the binding of beta2-glycoprotein I and prothrombin to phosphatidylserine-exposing blood platelets

The plasma protein beta2GPI (beta2-glycoprotein I) has been proposed to mediate phagocytosis of apoptotic cells and to play a role in the antiphospholipid syndrome. This suggestion is based mainly on the presumption that beta2GPI has an appreciable interaction with PS (phosphatidylserine)-exposing cell membranes. However, quantitative data on the binding of beta2GPI to PS-exposing cells under physiologically relevant conditions are scarce and conflicting. Therefore we evaluated the binding of beta2GPI to PS-expressing blood platelets. Flow cytometry showed that binding of beta2GPI is negligible at physiological ionic strength, in contrast with significant binding occurring at low ionic strength. Binding parameters of beta2GPI and (for comparison) prothrombin were quantified by ellipsometric measurement of protein depletion from the supernatant following incubation with platelets. At low ionic strength (20 mM NaCl, no CaCl2), a dissociation constant (K(d)) of 0.2 microM was found for beta2GPI, with 7.4x10(5) binding sites per platelet. Under physiologically relevant conditions (120 mM NaCl and 3 mM CaCl2), binding of beta2GPI was not detectable (extrapolated K(d)>80 microM). Prothrombin binding (at 3 mM CaCl2) was much less affected by ionic strength: K(d) values of 0.5 and 1.4 muM were observed at 20 and 120 mM NaCl respectively. The low affinity and the presence of many lipid-binding proteins in plasma that can compete with the binding of beta2GPI suggest that only a small fraction (<5%) of the binding sites on PS-exposing blood cells are likely to be occupied by beta2GPI. These findings are discussed in relation to the alleged (patho-)physiological functions of beta2GPI.

Influence of the physicochemical properties of liposomes on the accelerated blood clearance phenomenon in rats

We have recently reported that PEGylated liposomes (PL) are cleared rapidly from the blood circulation when they are administered twice in the same rat at certain intervals, even if the liposomes are sterically stabilized by a surface modification with PEG (referred to as the accelerated blood clearance (ABC) phenomenon, J. Control. Release, 88, 35-42 (2003)). Now we report on the influence of physicochemical properties (PEG-modification, size and surface charge) of either the first or the second dose of liposomes on the ABC phenomenon. When, for the first dose, conventional liposomes (CL; without a PEG coating) of 110-nm diameter were injected, only a very slight ABC phenomenon was observed, irrespective of the liposomal surface charge: both clearance rate and hepatic accumulation of the second injected PL were only slightly enhanced compared to those of a single dose of PL. Interestingly, when for the first injection small-size liposomes (60 nm) were used, either charged or PEG-modified, but not neutral, the ABC phenomenon was clearly manifest. Apparently, the induction of the ABC phenomenon is not only determined by the PEG coating but also by the size and surface charge of the first dose of liposomes. Also when for the second dose small-size PEGylated liposomes were used, the ABC phenomenon was observed after induction by a first injection of PL, whereas plasma kinetics and organ uptake of a second dose of negatively charged CL (NCL, 110 nm) or small-sized NCL (SNCL, 60 nm) were not altered. Apparently, the PEG coating on the second dose is essential for the liposomes to be susceptible to the ABC phenomenon. The results reported here suggest that the physicochemical properties of both the first and second dose of liposomes are important either for the induction of the phenomenon or for its expression. Our observations may have a considerable impact on the clinical application and engineering of liposomal formulations for use in multiple drug therapy.

Oxidation and biotinylation of beta 2 glycoprotein I glycan chains induce an increase in its affinity for anionic phospholipids similar to that obtained by the addition of anti-beta 2 glycoprotein I or anti-cardiolipin antibodies

Binding of beta 2 glycoprotein I (beta2GPI) to apoptotic cells plays a key role in the opsonization of apoptotic bodies and the formation of antiphospholipids antibodies. Here, we describe the binding of beta2GPI to apoptotic cells using beta2GPI labelled with biotin-hydrazide (beta2GPI-bh) after oxidation of its glycan chains. Flow cytometry analyses and confocal microscopy showed that beta2GPI-bh, contrary to native beta(GPI, bound to apoptotic cells, either permeable or non-permeable to propidium iodide (PI), as did annexin-V-FITC. But, in the absence of divalent ions, beta2GPI-bh, contrary to annexin V, was still able to bind to apoptotic cells. Binding equilibrium studies, performed on solid-state anionic phospholipids (AnPL), revealed that beta2GPI-bh had a greater apparent affinity for AnPL than native beta2GPI. In presence of the anti-beta2GPI mAb 8C3, the ability of native beta2GPI to bind to AnPL was increased and binding to apoptotic PI+ and PI- CEM cells was observed whereas binding of beta2GPI-bh was barely affected by the addition of 8C3. However, the 8C3-enhanced ability of native beta2GPI to bind to AnPL was still weaker than that of beta2GPI-bh. It is not clear why the oxidation and biotinylation of glycan chains of beta2GPI increases its affinity for AnPL, but it seems that if such oxidative process occurs naturally, it could participate in enhancing antiphospholipid formation.

Recruitment of beta-2-glycoprotein 1 to cell surfaces in extrinsic and intrinsic apoptosis

Apoptotic cells and phagocytes have developed a diverse array of distinct ligand-receptor systems that drive the recognition and uptake of dying cells. Phagocytes recognize apoptotic cells either directly, by binding to specific ligands at their cell surface, or indirectly, by binding to bridging proteins that bind these ligands. Previous observations showed that the plasma bridging protein beta2GP1, binds PS containing vesicles, and enhances their binding and engulfment by phagocytes in vitro. In this study we show that apoptotic cells injected intravenously and intraperitonealy into syngeneic mice recruited the PS binding protein, beta2GP1. Examination of peritoneal exudates and spleen thin sections showed that only the injected apoptotic cells picked up endogenous beta2GP1. Recovery of cells from the peritoneum showed that apoptotic cells bearing beta2GP1 were clustered around host peritoneal phagocytes. In addition, tissue sections from mice injected with Fas antibody showed colocalization of beta2GP1 with TUNEL-positive apoptotic cells. These results provide evidence that endogenous beta2GP1 binds apoptotic cells in vivo, suggesting that the protein plays an important physiologic role in the recognition of dying cells.