A PEG-PLGA-based polymeric capsule as theranostic nanoplatform for active targeting atherosclerosis

Background: Atherosclerosis plaque is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases across the globe, which is characterized by a gradual formation of atherosclerotic plaque, hardening, and narrowing of the arteries. Nano-materials can serve as powerful delivery platforms for atherosclerosis treatment. Herein we systematically developed polymeric capsule with active targeting property encapsulating curcumin (Cur) and C-C chemokine receptor type 2 with short-interfering RNA (CCR2-siRNA) for combined treatment, which was also loaded with Gd 3+ for magnatic resonance imaging (MRI) and a near-infrared fluorochrome (IR780) for fluorescence imaging (FI). Results: The resulting nano-capsule exhibited a favorable hydrodynamic size and negative surface charge. More importantly, the negative charge and active-targeting peptide resulted in enhanced accumulation of nano-capsule in the established atherosclerotic plaques, thereby achieving targeted drug release. The in vitro and in vivo results indicated the effective diagnostic and therapeutic sensitivity, which could promote the development of theranostics for clinical implementation. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that chemotherapy combined with gene therapy can displayed synergistic effect in atherosclerosis treatment, which possessed efficient management of atherosclerosis.