Sterol-modified PEG lipids: alteration of the bilayer anchoring moiety has an unexpected effect on liposome circulation

Chem Commun (Camb). 2018 Oct 28;54(84):11949-11952. doi: 10.1039/c8cc05011b. Epub 2018 Oct 5.

Abstract

We synthesized and characterized two novel sterol-anchored polyethylene glycols (PEG) as potential alternatives to conventional phosphatidylethanolamine-PEGs. Liposomes containing the dicholesterol anchored PEG at 5 mole percent exhibit canonical PEGgylated-liposome behaviors including retention of encapsulated small molecules, low serum protein adsorption, and reduced cellular uptake yet they do not exhibit long circulation.

MeSH terms

  • Lipid Bilayers / chemistry*
  • Lipids / chemistry
  • Liposomes / chemistry
  • Liposomes / metabolism*
  • Microscopy, Electron, Transmission
  • Molecular Structure
  • Polyethylene Glycols / chemistry*
  • Sterols / chemistry

Substances

  • Lipid Bilayers
  • Lipids
  • Liposomes
  • Sterols
  • Polyethylene Glycols
  • polyethylene glycol 400