A groundbreaking new method of drug delivery using proline, an amino acid found in chicken feathers and skin tissue, has been developed by researchers. This new approach, published in the journal Chem, involves designing a cage made of biologically compatible peptides – short amino acids that form the basis of proteins. These cages can house drugs of various sizes and transport them with high precision in the body. The goal of this new method is to limit the negative side effects associated with chemotherapy, such as hair loss and nerve damage, by delivering drugs directly to tumours while sparing healthy cells.
The off-site toxicity caused by chemotherapy, where healthy cells surrounding tumours are also affected by the treatment, can be mitigated using these nano-sized cages to deliver drugs. By enclosing the drug in a cage and releasing it specifically within the tumour, healthy cells can be shielded from the harmful effects of the treatment. The tunable nature of these cages allows for different sizes and payloads of drugs, making it possible to deliver chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, and antivirals with precision. This level of specificity was previously not achievable with cages made from hydrocarbon molecules found in tar, which can be toxic to humans.
Additionally, researchers believe that this new structure could pave the way for replacing faulty enzymes within the body, a feat that was previously impossible. Enzymes, which are crucial proteins that carry out various functions in the body, usually had their activities blocked by drugs. However, by using these cages, it may now be possible to replace malfunctioning enzymes directly, potentially opening up new avenues for treatment. Principal author Dr. Charlie McTernan describes the cage as a biologically compatible molecular teabag that can be filled with different medicines and delivered in a highly targeted manner, reducing side effects and improving treatment outcomes.
The unique properties of proline, such as its straight and rigid shape, as well as its solubility in water, make it well-suited for drug delivery applications. By binding the peptide to metals like palladium, researchers were able to create a customizable structure that can rapidly change in size. Proline and collagen, the building blocks of these cages, are widely available and do not rely on hydrocarbon chains like previous delivery methods, offering a more sustainable and scalable approach to production in the laboratory. The potential impact of this research is significant, as it could lead to more effective and targeted drug delivery systems, with the potential to reduce side effects and improve treatment outcomes for a range of conditions, including cancer.
Overall, this innovative approach to drug delivery using proline-based cages has the potential to revolutionize the way chemotherapy and other medications are administered. By targeting drugs directly to tumours and sparing healthy cells, the negative side effects associated with traditional treatments could be minimized. This research also opens up new possibilities for replacing faulty enzymes, which could have a profound impact on the treatment of various diseases. With its sustainable and scalable production process, this new method holds promise for more effective, precise, and personalized medication delivery in the future.