An inexpensive protein source for the encapsulation of small molecules

Abstract

In recent years, nanoparticles have found widespread use in several fields ranging from pharmaceuticals, mechanical devices and electronics. Their uses for therapeutic purposes originate from their uniform size that can be fabricated or engineered to be tuned to a specific requirement. Biomaterials like proteins/peptides are an excellent medium to design structural materials to act as carrier systems for small molecules. Nanoparticles possess the ability to encapsulate various types of small molecules, including therapeutic and imaging agents for disease treatment and diagnosis. However, due to the presence of nonspecific intermolecular interactions, the release of the associated small molecules from nanoparticles poses a challenge. In this article, we demonstrate the preparation of protein nanoparticles from an inexpensive source, rich in proteinaceous material. The nanoparticles thus prepared are capable of encapsulation of multifunctional small molecules and regulation of sustained release under specific stimuli is possible.

Graphical abstract

Synopsis Our study presents a cost-effective source for preparing protein nanoparticles from discarded cataractous eye lens proteins. These nanoparticles efficiently encapsulate curcumin and enable its sustained release under physiological stimuli. The biocompatible system shows potential as a novel vehicle for delivering hydrophobic drugs, with implications for targeted therapeutic applications.