Dynamic bonds and polyion complex (PIC) nanoparticles for targeted intracellular peptide delivery (DynaPIC)

Dynamic bonds and polyion complex (PIC) nanoparticles for targeted intracellular peptide delivery

Peptide delivery through hybrid nanoparticles

Various peptide-based biologics are being developed, but their poor intracellular delivery impedes their widespread application. The EU-funded DynaPIC project will develop a strategy for protecting these peptides and ensuring their efficient delivery within cells.

Researchers will employ dynamic covalent bonds to produce hybrid peptide–polymer nanoparticles with cell-targeting and permeation properties. Functionalisation with specific surface ligands will ensure specificity, while cellular uptake of these nanoparticles will trigger their disassembly and cargo release inside the cells. These hybrid peptide nanoparticles can be utilised as antimicrobial agents to kill pathogens inside infected cells.