Unveiling the potential of neuron-targeted dendriplexes for siRNA delivery using a PNS-CNS-on-Chip

Abstract

Neurological disorders, a leading global cause of death, encompass conditions affecting the peripheral and central nervous systems (PNS and CNS, respectively). Limited axon regeneration is a significant challenge in these disorders, and it is linked to proteins like PTEN. RNA-based therapeutics, particularly siRNAs, hold potential for silencing these inhibitory pathways, but their clinical application is hindered by poor stability and cellular uptake. Our study addressed this challenge with the development of novel, fully biodegradable dendritic nanoparticles designed specifically for neuron targeting. These nanoparticles were functionalized with the neurotropic binding domain of tetanus toxin, enhancing selective neuronal targeting and cellular internalization. We demonstrated that these dendriplexes not only maintain biocompatibility and efficient siRNA delivery in neuronal cultures but also significantly enhance axonal growth, as shown in microfluidic models. In a groundbreaking PNS-CNS-on-Chip, dendriplexes exhibited effective migration from PNS to CNS neurons, highlighting their potential for targeted therapeutic delivery. This study pioneers the application of microfluidics to demonstrate the CNS targeting of dendriplexes, paving the way for innovative treatments in the field of nanomedicine.