Polyethylene glycol-associated protein corona (PEG-protein corona)

The PEG-associated protein corona refers to the complex layer of serum proteins, lipids, and other biomolecules that spontaneously adsorb onto the surface of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-coated nanoparticles upon exposure to biological fluids. While PEGylation is a gold-standard strategy used to provide a 'stealth' shield that reduces immune recognition and prolongs systemic circulation, it does not completely prevent protein adsorption. Instead, it alters the composition of the corona, often recruiting specific 'dysopsonins' like clusterin that help the particle evade the mononuclear phagocyte system. The resulting corona defines the 'biological identity' of the nanomedicine, significantly influencing its biodistribution, cellular internalization, and toxicity. In clinical practice, the formation of this corona is linked to the accelerated blood clearance (ABC) phenomenon and hypersensitivity reactions, particularly in patients with pre-existing anti-PEG antibodies. Understanding and engineering the PEG-associated protein corona is critical for the development of effective lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, and other PEGylated drug delivery systems used in oncology and vaccine technology.

Other names

PEGylated nanoparticle protein coronaPEG coronaNanoparticle-protein coronaBio-corona

The PEG-associated protein corona is not a drug target in the traditional sense but a biological phenomenon where plasma proteins adsorb onto PEGylated surfaces. PEGylation is intended to create a hydration layer that sterically hinders protein adsorption (the 'stealth effect'), thereby reducing recognition by the mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) and extending circulation time (PMID: 28945353). However, a corona still forms, and its specific composition (e.g., enrichment of clusterin or apolipoproteins) dictates the nanoparticle's biological identity and therapeutic efficacy (PMID: 31053611).