| Project | SPARTAN :: publications list |
| Title | Biofunctional Nanofibrous Substrate for Local TNF-Capturing as a Strategy to Control Inflammation in Arthritic Joints |
| Publication Type | Papers in Scientific Journals |
| Year of Publication | 2019 |
| Authors | Bacelo E., Alves da Silva M., Cunha C., Faria S., Carvalho A., Reis R. L., Martins A., and Neves N. M. |
| Abstract | Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects the synovial cavity of joints, and its pathogenesis is associated with an increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, namely tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). It has been clinically shown to have an adequate response to systemic administration of TNF-α inhibitors, although with many shortcomings. To overcome such limitations, the immobilization of a TNF-α antibody on a nanofibrous substrate to promote a localized action is herein proposed. By using this approach, the antibody has its maximum therapeutic efficacy and a prolonged therapeutic benefit, avoiding the systemic side-effects associated with conventional biological agents’ therapies. To technically achieve such a purpose, the surface of electrospun nanofibers is initially activated and functionalized, allowing TNF-α antibody immobilization at a maximum concentration of 6 µg/mL. Experimental results evidence that the biofunctionalized nanofibrous substrate is effective in achieving a sustained capture of soluble TNF-α over time. Moreover, cell biology assays demonstrate that this system has no deleterious effect over human articular chondrocytes metabolism and activity. Therefore, the developed TNF-capturing system may represent a potential therapeutic approach for the local management of severely affected joints. |
| Journal | Nanomaterials |
| Volume | 9 |
| Issue | 4 |
| Pagination | 667 |
| Date Published | 2019-04-08 |
| ISSN | 2079-4991 |
| DOI | 10.3390/nano9040567 |
| URL | https://www.mdpi.com/2079-4991/9/4/567/htm |
| Keywords | Antibody immobilization, electrospun nanofibers, Human articular chondrocytes, rheumatoid arthritis, TNF-α capture |
| Rights | openAccess |
| Peer reviewed | yes |
| Status | published |