Biodistribution of vaccines comprised of hydrophobically-modified poly(γ-glutamic acid) nanoparticles and antigen proteins using fluorescence imaging

Fluorophores-modified nanoparticles comprised of poly(γ-glutamic acid)-phenylalanine (γ-PGA-Phe-633) and ovalbumin (OVA-750) termed NPs-633/OVA-750 were prepared to assess their biodistribution using an in vivo fluorescence imager. Dynamic light scattering measurements indicated that NPs-633/OVA-750 were about 200 nm in diameter. The release of encapsulated OVA from NPs-633 in PBS was negligible (∼10%) for a week. When subcutaneously injected, the localization period of OVA-750-encapsulated into NPs-633 at the site of injection (SOI) was much longer than that of free OVA-750, but was shorter as compared to a mixture with aluminum hydroxide. The NPs-633 disappeared at the SOI and major organs within 1 month after administration. Moreover, intravenously and intraperitoneally administered NPs-633 were mainly observed at the liver, and there was more rapid clearance from all organs as compared with non-biodegradable NPs. These fast clearance and degradation characteristics of γ-PGA-Phe NPs will be important not only for avoiding undesired adverse effects, but also for inducing a strong vaccine effect.