Abstract
FAU researchers have developed a novel red blood cell mimic. The red blood cell mimic consists of a multi-layer coating of poly-L-lysine phospholipid bilayers and red blood cell membrane. The ability to behave like a real red blood cell has been demonstrated in a proof of concept experiment, in which surface proteins of the red blood cell mimics are compared to normal red blood cells attached to glass slides. It was found that the red blood cell mimic had similar surface protein composition to normal red blood cells. The technology was developed in an aqueous solution at 25 degrees Celsius, thereby helping to retain the biological features of normal red blood cells.
In addition, nanoparticles have been added to the red blood cell mimic. It was successfully shown that the nanoparticles could be delivered in an in vitro assay. This proof of concept data shows the developed mimics exhibit red blood cell characteristics with the ability to deliver cargo to a target cell.
FAU is seeking partners to advance this technology into the marketplace through licensing or development partnerships.
Benefit
Prototype developed and testedAbility mimic red blood cell biological featuresCan deliver cargo to a target cellMarket Application
Research tools
Brochure
