Synthetic lipoproteins based on apolipoprotein E coupled to fullerenol have anti-atherosclerotic properties

Background Apolipoprotein E (apoE) is an anti-atherosclerotic protein associated with almost all plasma lipoproteins. Fullerenol (Full-OH) contains the fullerene hydrophobic cage and several hydroxyl groups that could be derivatized to covalently bind various molecules. Herein, we aimed to produce fullerenol-based nanoparticles carrying apoE3 (Full-apoE) and test their anti-atherosclerotic effects. Methods Full-apoE nanoparticles were obtained from Full-OH activated to reactive cyanide ester fullerenol derivative that was further reacted with apoE protein. To test their effect, the nanoparticles were administered to apoE-deficient mice for 24 h or 3 weeks. ApoE part of the nanoparticles was determined by Western Blot and quantified by ELISA. Atherosclerotic plaque size was evaluated after Oil Red O staining and the gene expression was determined by Real-Time PCR. Results Full-apoE nanoparticles were detected mainly in the liver, and to a lesser extent in the kidney, lung, and brain. In the plasma of the Full-apoE-treated mice, apoE was found associated with very-low-density lipoproteins and high-density lipoproteins. Treatment for 3 weeks with Full-apoE nanoparticles decreased plasma cholesterol levels, increased the expression of apolipoprotein A-I, ABCA1 transporter, scavenger receptor-B1, and sortilin, and reduced the evolution of the atheromatous plaques in the atherosclerotic mice. Conclusions In experimental atherosclerosis, the administration of Full-apoE nanoparticles limits the evolution of the atheromatous plaques by decreasing the plasma cholesterol level and increasing the expression of major proteins involved in lipid metabolism. Thus, they represent a novel promising strategy for atherosclerosis therapy. Graphical abstract