methotrexate-loaded lipid nanoparticles

Methotrexate-loaded lipid nanoparticles (MTX-LDE) is a nanomedicine formulation developed by researchers at the University of São Paulo General Hospital for the treatment of COVID-19. The drug consists of methotrexate, a folate analogue metabolic inhibitor, incorporated into a cholesterol-rich lipid core nanoparticle (LDE) that mimics the structure and behavior of low-density lipoprotein (LDL). This delivery system is designed to exploit the overexpression of LDL receptors at sites of intense inflammation and cell proliferation, allowing the drug to concentrate in affected tissues such as the lungs. By targeting the delivery of methotrexate, the formulation aims to enhance its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects while minimizing systemic toxicity. MTX-LDE has been evaluated in Phase 1/2 clinical trials (Nano-COVID19) for hospitalized patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 to reduce pulmonary inflammation and shorten hospital stays.

Other names

methotrexate-LDELDE-MTX