Khan, MA
Tuftsin, a tetrapeptide (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg), acts as an immunopotentiating molecule with its ability to bind and activate many immune cells, including macrophages or monocytes, neutrophils and dendritic cells. The specific targeting activity of tuftsin has been further increased by its palmitoylation followed by its incorporation into the lipid bilayer of liposomes. Tuftsin-bearing liposomes (Tuft-liposomes) possess several characteristics that enable them to act as a potential drug and vaccine carriers. Tuft-liposomes-loaded anti-microbial drugs have been shown to be highly effective against many infectious diseases, including tuberculosis, leishmaniasis, malaria, candidiasis and cryptococosis. Moreover, Tuft-liposomes also increased the activity of anticancer drug etoposide against fibrosarcoma in mice. Tuft-liposomes showed the immune-potentiating effect and rejuvenated the immune cells in the leukopenic mice. In addition, antigens encapsulated in Tuftsin-bearing liposomes demonstrated greater immunogenicity by increasing the T cell proliferation and antibody secretion. Keeping into consideration their specific targeting and immunopotentiating effects, Tuft-liposomes may potentially be used as promising drug and vaccine delivery systems.
Keywords: Drug delivery; Immunoadjuvant; Infection; Liposome; Macrophages; Tuftsin
Liposome-targeted drug delivery represents a cutting-edge approach in the treatment of infectious diseases and cancer, offering enhanced specificity and efficacy over traditional therapies. By encapsulating therapeutic agents within liposomes, these nanocarriers protect drugs from premature degradation and enhance their bioavailability. In cancer treatment, liposomes can be engineered to preferentially accumulate in tumor tissues through the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, exploiting the leaky vasculature characteristic of tumors. Additionally, surface modifications with targeting ligands such as antibodies, peptides, or small molecules allow for precise targeting of cancer cells, thereby minimizing off-target toxicity and improving therapeutic outcomes. Similarly, in the context of infectious diseases, liposomes can be designed to target specific pathogens or infected cells, enhancing the concentration of the drug at the site of infection and reducing systemic side effects. This targeted delivery is particularly beneficial in treating intracellular pathogens, where conventional drugs often struggle to reach effective concentrations. Furthermore, liposomes can be loaded with multiple therapeutic agents, enabling combination therapies that can simultaneously attack different aspects of the disease. The ability to control the release of encapsulated drugs ensures a sustained therapeutic effect, making liposome-targeted drug delivery a promising and versatile strategy in the fight against cancer and infectious diseases.