Uptake and subcellular distribution of radiolabeled polymersomes for radiotherapy

Stefan J. Roobol, Thomas A. Hartjes, Johan A. Slotman, Robin M. de Kruijff, Roland Kanaar, Adriaan B. Houtsmuller, Antonia G. Denkova, Martin E. van Royen, Jeroen Essers*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

11 Citations (Scopus)
94 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Polymersomes have the potential to be applied in targeted alpha radionuclide therapy, while in addition preventing release of recoiling daughter isotopes. In this study, we investigated the cellular uptake, post uptake processing and intracellular localization of polymersomes. Methods: High-content microscopy was used to validate polymersome uptake kinetics. Confocal (live cell) microscopy was used to elucidate the uptake mechanism and DNA damage induction. Intracellular distribution of polymersomes in 3-D was determined using super-resolution microscopy. Results: We found that altering polymersome size and concentration affects the initial uptake and overall uptake capacity; uptake efficiency and eventual plateau levels varied between cell lines; and mitotic cells show increased uptake. Intracellular polymersomes were transported along microtubules in a fast and dynamic manner. Endocytic uptake of polymersomes was evidenced through co-localization with endocytic pathway components. Finally, we show the intracellular distribution of polymersomes in 3-D and DNA damage inducing capabilities of213Bi labeled polymersomes. Conclusion: Polymersome size and concentration affect the uptake efficiency, which also varies for different cell types. In addition, we present advanced assays to investigate uptake characteristics in detail, a necessity for optimization of nano-carriers. Moreover, by elucidating the uptake mechanism, as well as uptake extent and geometrical distribution of radiolabeled polymersomes we provide insight on how to improve polymersome design.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)14-25
Number of pages12
JournalNanotheranostics
Volume4
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2020

Keywords

  • Live cell confocal microscopy
  • Nano-carriers
  • Polymersomes
  • Radionuclide therapy
  • Uptake

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Uptake and subcellular distribution of radiolabeled polymersomes for radiotherapy'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this