Targeting and internalization of sterically stabilized liposome modified with ZCH-4-2E8

Summary Sterically stabilized liposome (SL) modified with 2E8 monoclonal antibody (2E8-SL) was prepared in order to evaluate its targeting ability and internalization efficiency against tumor cells with high expression of CD19. 2E8 was coupled to the surface of SL using post-insertion technique. The shape of liposomes was observed under a transmission electronic microscope. The average size of liposomes was determined by using the Zetasizer instrument. The binding and internalization of 2E8-SL against tumor cells with higher expression of CD19 were tested by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. The mean diameter of 2E8-SL was 121.25 nm. 2E8-SL was stable after up to 24 days in various buffers. 2E8-SL showed specific binding to tumor cells with high expression of CD19, including B cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). 2E8-SL could efficiently internalize into Nalm6 cells with CD19 high expression. It is suggested that 2E8-SL may serve as useful delivery carrier of anti-cancer drugs targeting to hematological malignant tumors with CD19 high expression.