Versatile dual responsive EGCG/Cys nano delivery system for atherosclerosis

Nanocarriers receive tremendous attention in nanomedicine and precision biomedicine, especially cardiovascular diseases. However, the ideal carriers for multiple agents are still got a long way to come. In this work, one REDOX dual responsive nanoparticle was designed and constructed by epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and cystamine (Cys). The particles presented uniform sphere, and its diameter was around 200 nm. The drug loading ability of the particles was evaluated using rhodamine 6G (Rh6G), rapamycin (Rapa) and bovine serum albumin as model drugs. The EGCG/Cys particles could intelligently release drugs based on the REDOX level of local environment. The morphology and cell viability results of endothelial cells (ECs) and macrophage cells verified the good biocompatibility of the particles. The biosecurity of the particles was further confirmed by injections in vivo. Moreover, the EGCG/Cys particles could effectively target the injured vascular. These results confirmed that the EGCG/Cys particles could be used as one universal carrier to build nano delivery system for drugs, biological agent and vaccines for targeted treatment of atherosclerosis. The work provides one novel promising universal nanocarrier with good bio-safety for multiple drugs and bio-agents for atherosclerosis treatment.