A combination of systemic mannitol administration and mannitol-modified polyester nanoparticles facilitate gene delivery to the brain through caveolae-mediated endocytosis

Abstract

Overcoming the blood-brain barrier (BBB) remains a significant challenge for nucleic acid delivery to the brain. We have explored a combination of mannitol-modified poly (β-amino ester) (PBAE) nanoparticles and systemic mannitol injection for crossing the BBB. We incorporated mannitol in the PBAE polymer for caveolae targeting and also selected monomers that may help avoid delivery to the liver. We also induced caveolae at the BBB through systemic mannitol injection in order to create an opportunity for the caveolae-targeting nanoparticles (M30 D90)containing plasmid DNA to cross the BBB. When a clinically relevant dose was administered intravenously in this caveolae induction model, M30 D90 demonstrated significant transgene expression of a reporter plasmid in the brain, with selective uptake by neuronal cells and minimal liver accumulation. We also demonstrate that both caveolae modulation using systemic mannitol administration and caveolae targeting using designed nanoparticles are necessary for efficient delivery to the brain. This delivery platform offers a simple, scalable, and controlled delivery solution and holds promise for treating central nervous system diseases with functional targets.