Comparative evaluation of hepatitis B surface antigen-loaded elastic liposomes and ethosomes for human dendritic cell uptake and immune response

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to evaluate two vesicular carrier systems, ethosomes and elastic liposomes loaded with hepatitis B surface antigen, for in vitro qualitative and quantitative uptake by human dendritic cells (DCs) and ability to stimulate T lymphocytes. Quantitative uptake of antigen-loaded carriers was documented by flow cytometry, and internalization of the systems by the DCs was studied using spectral bioimaging. Ability of antigen-pulsed DCs to stimulate autologous peripheral blood lymphocytes and levels of TH1/TH2 cytokines were also examined using flow cytometry. Both vesicular carrier systems as antigen delivery modules and DCs as antigen-presenting cells were able to generate a protective immune response. However, ethosomes were found to have higher internalizing ability and immunogenicity in comparison with elastic liposomes. These properties of ethosomes coupled with their skin-navigating potential, make it an attractive vehicle for development of a transcutaneous vaccine against hepatitis B in preference to elastic liposomes.