Novel Gelatin-based Nano-gels with Coordination-induced Drug Loading for Intracellular Delivery

In this study, we develop the gelatin-dopamine (Gel-Dopa) nano-gels (GDNGs) and explore their potential as drug delivery vehicles. The Gel-Dopa precursor is synthesized using EDC/NHS coupling reaction, in which the catechols can coordinate with transition metal ions such as Fe3+. These novel GDNGs exhibit excellent cytocompatibility. The model drug, doxorubicin (Dox), is readily conjugated into catechol of GDNGs by the coordination cross-link of Fe3+ ion. The morphology and size distribution of the nano-gels are characterized via field emission scanning electron microscopy and particle size analyzer, respectively. The GDNGs loaded with Dox (GDNGs-Dox) is capable of efficiently penetrating cell membrane and enter the HeLa cells. The endocytosed GDNGs-Dox release Dox molecules and subsequently kill the tumor cells.