Cholesterol – a biological compound as a building block in bionanotechnology

Abstract

Cholesterol is a molecule with many tasks in nature but also a long history in science. This feature article highlights the contribution of this small compound to bionanotechnology. We discuss relevant chemical aspects in this context followed by an overview of its self-assembly capabilities both as a free molecule and when conjugated to a polymer. Further, cholesterol in the context of liposomes is reviewed and its impact ranging from biosensing to drug delivery is outlined. Cholesterol is and will be an indispensable player in bionanotechnology, contributing to the progress of this potent field of research.

Liposomes as nanomedical devices

“…Further, cholesterol can be used to anchor other molecules, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) or deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), to the liposomes for their application in biosensing or as "stealth" drug carriers 12 (reviewed in Hosta-Rigau et al). 13 Finally, the use of phosphatidylcholine with saturated fatty acyl chains and materials that stretch the transition temperature beyond 37°C offered even greater stabilization. 14 For prolongation of the in vivo liposome circulation time, a milestone is the inclusion of hydrophilic carbohydrates or polymers, such as monosialoganglioside (G M1 ) and PEG in liposome composition.…”

Cholesterol-modified poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles for tumor-targeted drug delivery

“…The biocompatibility and biodegradability of PLGA have been thoroughly investigated in in vitro and in vivo models Danhier et al, 2012). Cholesterol is one of endogenous materials and it can participate in various physiological functions (Hosta-Rigau et al, 2013). Considering the biosafety of individual components of PLGA-C, it may be used safely for the development of intravenous formulations.…”

Cholesterol-tethered AIEE fluorogens: formation of self-assembled nanostructures

“…This approach involving use steroidal groups such as cholesterol drive formation of hierarchal self-assemblies or organogels 37,55-57 and therefore may be very useful building blocks as light up bioprobes 25,58,59 and as functional materials for optical or biological applications. 28,60 Conclusions In summary, novel cholesterol polyene conjugates containing cyano group on the double bond were designed and they inherit the emission characteristics of the attached uorophore. The optical properties in homogeneous solvents suggest that ICT behavior is seen in diene derivatives and remarkable AIEE behavior is noted for stilbenes (1) and (2).…”