Administration of Glucose-Encapsulated Liposomes with Sialyl Lewis X on the Surface Improves Stroke Outcomes in Mice

Hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation improves stroke outcomes. The mechanism of HSC transplantation involves delivering metabolites, such as glucose, to injured cerebral endothelial cells via gap junctions. To mimic HSC function, we prepared glucose-encapsulated liposomes functionalized with sialyl Lewis X on their surfaces and evaluated their therapeutic effects in a murine stroke model. As a result, liposomes with sialyl Lewis X accumulated in both the poststroke and contralateral cortices, whereas those without sialyl Lewis X showed no accumulation. Administration of glucose-encapsulated liposomes with sialyl Lewis X improved stroke outcomes and enhanced cerebral blood flow. Our findings indicate that liposome therapy could serve as a promising alternative to stem cell therapy for stroke.