Lectin anchored PLGA nanoparticles for oral mucosal immunization against hepatitis B

Present study aimed at exploring the potential of alpha-L-fucose specific, LTA (Lotus tetragonolobus from Winged or Asparagus pea) as a homing device for nanocarriers to target the M cell for elicitation of strong immune response. LTA grafted poly(lactic-co-glycolic acids) (PLGA) nanoparticles encapsulating hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was developed and characterized for shape, size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and antigen loading efficiency. The peyer's patch uptake was studied by using confocal laser scanning microscopy technique using dual staining technique. The immune stimulating potential was assessed by measuring anti-HBsAg titer in serum of balb/c mice. Induction of the mucosal immunity was assessed by estimating secretory immunoglobulin A level in the salivary, intestinal, and vaginal secretion and cytokine (interleukin-2 and interferon-gamma) levels in the spleen homogenates. Furthermore, IgG1 and IgG2a isotype were determined to confirm the T(H)1/T(H)2 mixed immune response. The LTA anchored PLGA nanoparticles have demonstrated approximately four-fold increase in the degree of interaction with the bovine submaxillary mucin (BSM). The results demonstrated that LTA anchored PLGA nanoparticles elicited strong mucosal and systemic response and hence could be a promising carrier adjuvant for the M cell targeted oral mucosal immunization against Hepatitis B.