PLGA nanoparticles restore acidic pH and degradative function to compromised lysosomes with Cy3-labeling providing enhanced tracking to lysosomes

American Journal of Physiology-Cell Physiology 2026 Open access

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Authors: Jiaqi Li, Tianchen Wang, Wennan Lu, Davit Jishkariani, Andrew Tsourkas, Simon Kaja, Kyle H. Vining, Jedtanut Thussananutiyakul, Ashley Spence, Rohini M. Nair, Joshua L. Dunaief, Claire H. Mitchell
DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00494.2025
Cited by: 1
References: 76

Abstract

Tools that restore acidic pH in compromised lysosomes can enhance autophagy and waste clearance in degenerative disorders characterized by excessive accumulation. Here, we describe the synthesis of lysosome-targeted nanoparticles composed of poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) polymers covalently bound to the fluorescent dye Cyanine3 amine (Cy3). These Cy3-PLGA nanoparticles enable precise tracking of lysosomal delivery and demonstrate sustained long-term retention within lysosomes, supporting their potential for future applications aimed at restoring lysosomal pH in aging and degenerating diseases.

Fields of Study & Subjects

RNA Interference and Gene Delivery Lysosomal Storage Disorders Research Advanced Drug Delivery Systems

Publication details

Journal / source
American Journal of Physiology-Cell Physiology
Publisher
American Physiological Society
Volume
330
Issue
2
Pages
C509–C523
Publication date
14 January 2026
Language
EN