Important Notice: Our web hosting provider recently started charging us for additional visits, which was unexpected. In response, we're seeking donations. Depending on the situation, we may explore different monetization options for our Community and Expert Contributors. It's crucial to provide more returns for their expertise and offer more Expert Validated Answers or AI Validated Answers. Learn more about our hosting issue here.

Is it possible to use clodronate liposomes for depletion of macrophages “in vitro”?

April 26, 2017clodronate depletion liposomes macrophages possible

0

Posted

Is it possible to use clodronate liposomes for depletion of macrophages “in vitro”?

1 Answer

0

Posted

Yes, it is possible to deplete macrophages in vitro, but please keep in mind that the method is specifically suitable for “in vivo” research. The reason is that clodronate released from dead macrophages or released in the culture medium by leakage from liposomes (dependent on the composition of the medium) cannot escape from the medium whereas clodronate, once released “in vivo”, has a very short half life due to its rapid removal by the kidneys. Free clodronate molecules will not easily enter into cells because of their difficult passage of cell membranes (as well as liposomal phospholipid bilayers). However if they remain in the surrounding medium they may slowly accumulate into cells. See also reference: Claassen, I., Van Rooijen, N., and Claassen, E., 1990. A new method for removal of mononuclear phagocytes from heterogenous cell populations ‘in vitro’, using the liposome-mediated macrophage ‘suicide’ technique. J. Immunol. Meth.. vol. 134. pp. 153-161. (#32).