Antigen recognition-triggered drug delivery mediated by nanocapsule-functionalized cytotoxic T-cells

Biomaterials. 2017 Feb:117:44-53. doi: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2016.11.048. Epub 2016 Nov 25.

Abstract

Cytotoxic T-Lymphocytes (CTLs) kill pathogen-infected or transformed cells following interaction of their T-cell receptors (TCRs) with foreign (e.g. virus-derived) peptides bound to MHC-I molecules on the target cell. TCR binding triggers CTLs to secrete perforin, which forms pores in the target cell membrane, promoting target death. Here, we show that by conjugating drug-loaded lipid nanoparticles to the surface of CTLs, their lytic machinery can be co-opted to lyse the cell-bound drug carrier, providing triggered release of drug cargo upon target cell recognition. Protein encapsulated in T-cell-bound nanoparticles was released following culture of CTLs with target cells in an antigen dose- and perforin-dependent manner and coincided with target cell lysis. Using this approach, we demonstrate the capacity of HIV-specific CTLs to deliver an immunotherapeutic agent to an anatomical site of viral replication. This strategy provides a novel means to couple drug delivery to the action of therapeutic cells in vivo.

Keywords: Cytotoxic T lymphocytes; Drug delivery; Immunotherapy; Lipid nanocapsules; T-pharmacyte.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-HIV Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Autoantigens / immunology*
  • Delayed-Action Preparations / administration & dosage
  • HIV Infections / immunology*
  • HIV Infections / therapy*
  • Mice
  • Nanocapsules / administration & dosage*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Cytotoxic / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Cytotoxic / transplantation*

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents
  • Autoantigens
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Nanocapsules