Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is characterized by irreversible lung scarring with limited therapeutic options. Roxithromycin (RXM), exhibiting anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory properties, selectively eliminates senescent fibroblasts and inhibits senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). This study aimed to develop an effective inhalable drug delivery system for IPF by encapsulating RXM-loaded fibroblast membrane-fused liposomes into porous poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles. RXM-loaded liposomes fused with NIH/3T3 fibroblast membranes were prepared using thin-film hydration and extrusion methods, demonstrating selective fibroblast targeting verified by confocal microscopy. The fusion liposomes showed optimal size (~120 nm) and stability with minimal cytotoxicity. Porous PLGA microparticles, fabricated by a double emulsion solvent evaporation method followed by NaOH etching, exhibited enhanced porosity and suitable aerodynamic properties (MMAD ~ 3.4 µm) for inhalation delivery, as confirmed by SEM and aerodynamic analysis. The final formulation enabled effective encapsulation of fibroblast-targeting liposomes, providing sustained drug release upon microparticle degradation. These results suggest that inhalable porous PLGA microparticles loaded with RXM-fused liposomes represent a promising approach for targeted, sustained therapy in IPF treatment.
2025 Spring Convention