Custom Protein-Liposome Conjugation Service

Introduction of Liposome

Liposomes are microscopic micelles formed by multiple phospholipid molecules. Moreover, cholesterol is included in the bilayer of the liposomes to increase their stability. Their distinctive structure allows the encapsulation of hydrophilic substances within an internal aqueous phase, while also accommodating lipophilic drugs between lipid bilayers. Noteworthy for their biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, controlled release properties, adjustable particle size, and good stability, liposomes are extensively utilized as carriers for drugs, vaccines, and contrast agents. In recent years, functional modifications based on protein-liposome conjugation have been developed to enhance tumor targeting. These strategies mainly include peptides, antibodies, and ligands.

Fig.1 Schematic diagram of protein-liposome conjugation types. (Creative Biolabs Original) Fig.1 The main types of protein-modified liposomes.

Peptide-Liposome Conjugation

Peptides play a significant role in biological processes, influencing growth, development, and metabolism in the organism. They are characterized by biocompatibility, small size, high specificity, and ease of modification. Peptides used to modify liposomes mainly include homing peptides, cell-penetrating peptides, and cell-penetrating homing peptides. Depending on their specific functions, peptides can target cancer cells and enhance the intracellular uptake of liposomes.

Antibody-Liposome Conjugation

Antibody-modified liposomes, also known as immunoliposomes, are formed by coupling polyethylene glycol (PEG)-modified antibodies to the surface of liposomes. Immunoliposomes belong to actively targeted liposomes, which rely on the specific binding of antibodies to target cell surface antigens, thus enabling the enrichment of liposomal drug delivery systems in target cells and reducing side effects. At the same time, PEGylation modification can accomplish the purpose of prolonged circulation. Commonly used antibody types for conjugation mainly include monoclonal antibodies, antibody Fab fragments, and single-chain antibodies.

Ligand-Liposome Conjugation

Liposome modification using receptor-specific ligands is also a common strategy for targeting cancer cells. A prime example is the transferrin-modified liposomes. Studies have shown the upregulation of transferrin expression on the surface of tumor cells relative to normal cells. By employing transferrin-liposome conjugates, targeted destruction of tumor cells can be achieved efficiently.

Our Strategies for Protein-Liposome Conjugation

NHS ester derivative of palmitic acid
Biotinylated phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) lipid derivatives
Glutaraldehyde-activated PE lipid derivatives
Crosslinkers-modified PE lipid derivatives, such as N-succinimidyl 3-(2-pyridyldithio)propionate (SPDP), succinimidyl-4-(p-maleimidophenyl)butyrate (SMPB), succinimidyl-4-(N-maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxylate (SMCC), dimethyl suberimidate (DMS), etc.
Carbodiimide (EDC)-mediated conjugation of PE lipids to carboxylic acid groups

Creative Biolabs offers state-of-the-art and comprehensive protein-liposome conjugation services. Our expert team can create personalized research plans to align with your drug development goals. Multi-targeted modified liposomes based on the above scheme can also be achieved here. Additionally, we offer other liposome-based conjugation services including oligonucleotide, oligosaccharide, biotin, and drug. Contact us for more details.