Plasma Protein Interactions with Cubosomes

The aim of this proposal is to model the interaction of a selected plasma protein, Apolipoprotein E (Apo E), with Polysorbate 80-stabilised phytantriol cubosomes, a potential drug delivery platform previously characterised by our group. Apo E has been reported to adsorb somewhat selectively to Polysorbate 80-coated nanoparticles, as compared to those coated with other common stabilisers such as Pluronic F1277. The adsorption of Apo E to cubosomes is of further interest given reports of its involvement in synthetic nanoparticle uptake across the blood-brain barrier8–10, suggesting a potential role in targeted drug delivery. SANS profiles of the cubosome dispersions will be measured before and after addition of Apo E. This proposal has been submitted in tandem with deuteration proposal NDF5800. Data will be analysed using models within the Igor package or SASView software package as appropriate in order to determine:
 The effect of protein adsorption on the global structure of the cubosomes.
 The disposition of phytantriol and Polysorbate 80 (P80) in the cubosomes.
 The disposition of adsorbed protein on the surface and in the core of the cubosomes.
 The effect of protein adsorption on the disposition of stabiliser in the cubosomes