Tuftsin-Plga Conjugate To Target Tuberculosis Cell

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global health concern, with prolonged treatment regimens and increasing drug resistance posing significant challenges. Conventional anti-tubercular therapies often suffer from poor bioavailability, systemic toxicity, and low patient adherence due to extended treatment durations. Targeted drug delivery systems offer a promising solution to these limitations by enhancing drug accumulation at infection sites while minimizing side effects. In this study, we developed and characterized a Tuftsin-PLGA (Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)) conjugate designed to deliver anti-TB drugs directly to macrophages, the primary host cells for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Tuftsin, a natural tetrapeptide (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg), is known for its ability to enhance macrophage activation and facilitate receptor-mediated uptake. By conjugating Tuftsin with PLGA nanoparticles, we aimed to create a targeted, biocompatible, and sustained-release system for anti-tubercular drug delivery.The study demonstrates that Tuftsin-functionalized PLGA nanoparticles represent a promising approach for targeted TB therapy. By leveraging the macrophage-specific uptake of Tuftsin and the controlled release properties of PLGA, this system offers an efficient, patient-friendly drug delivery strategy. The sustained release mechanism reduces systemic side effects, enhances drug bioavailability, and ensures higher therapeutic efficacy, ultimately improving patient adherence to TB treatment regimens. Future in vivo studies and clinical trials are essential to validate the translational potential of this novel drug delivery platform.In conclusion, the development and characterization of Tuftsin-PLGA conjugates offer a novel, targeted, and sustained drug delivery approach for tuberculosis therapy.