Biodegradable protein nanocontainers.

The application of synthetic polymers for drug delivery often requires tremendous efforts to ensure biocompatibility and -degradation. To use the body's own substances can help to overcome these problems. Herein, we present the first synthesis of nanocontainers entirely composed of albumin proteins. These protein nanocontainers (PNCs) were loaded with hydrophilic compounds and release of the payload is triggered through natural lysis in vitro in human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDCs). No aggregation of PNCs in human blood plasma was observed, indicating stability for blood circulation. As the PNCs were readily taken up by moDCs, they are considered as a promising delivery platform for vaccination strategies and could minimize the risk of side effects caused by foreign carrier substances.