Development and In Vitro Characterization of Transferrin-Decorated Nanoemulsion Utilizing Hydrophobic Ion Pairing for Targeted Cellular Uptake

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to develop transferrin-conjugated nanoemulsions utilizing hydrophobic ion pairing for a targeted cellular uptake. Methods In the lipophilic phase nanoemulsion composed 60% oleic acid, 30% Capmul MCM EP and 10% Span 85, 1% cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) 3% phosphatidic acid (PA) were incorporated. After emulsification, resulting droplets decorated with human protein transferrin via PA characterized regarding droplet size zeta potential. Subsequently, uptake investigated on Caco-2 HeLa cell lines determined by flow cytometry, lysis method live imaging using confocal laser scanning microscopy. Results showed 123.03 ± 2.1 nm potential ? 54.5 mV that changed because surface decoration 182.7 0.2 + 30.2 mV, respectively. Within studies 5.2-fold higher in cells twofold improvement case compared unmodified formulation. outcome confirmed visually imaging. Conclusion According results, might be considered as promising drug delivery system selective receptor-mediated delivery.