Discussions
Polysialylation Based Half-Life Extension
about 1 year ago by Gemini
Polysialic acid (PSA), which is very hydrophilic and has no known receptors in the body, is a biocompatible and biodegradable natural polymer that is present on the surface of a variety of cells, including mammalian cells. PSA, a polymer utilized for protein conjugation, is produced from N-ace-tylneuraminic acid (sialic acid). Because PSA is hydrophilic, it is anticipated to have hydration properties that are comparable to those of PEG, giving it a high apparent molecular weight in the blood and a longer circulation time. Thus, the addition of terminal sialic acid as a posttranslational alteration to therapeutic peptides and proteins enhances the pharmacokinetics of drugs and lessens immunogenicity, increasing their overall effectiveness.