L220-derived peptide-bioconjugated carbon nanotubes protect hamsters against amoebic liver abscess through IL-17A-associated immune response.

The development of effective vaccines against Entamoeba histolytica remains a major challenge, particularly for preventing amoebic liver abscess (ALA). In this study, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were evaluated as nanocarriers through bioconjugation with L220-derived peptides (PL220-CNTs). CNTs were synthesized, purified, and characterized, confirming successful bioconjugation (42%). In vitro, PL220-CNTs exhibited negligible cytotoxicity in J774 macrophages and induced morphological changes characterized by cytoplasmic prolongations and phagosome-like structures. In vivo, subcutaneous immunization of hamsters induced antigen-specific responses, including splenocyte proliferation and increased IL-17A production, suggesting the participation of an IL-17A-associated immune response. Notably, animals immunized with PL220-CNTs exhibited limited antibody production against L220-derived peptides, suggesting a predominantly cellular immune response. PL220-CNT immunization conferred complete protection against ALA following intrahepatic challenge, whereas L220 alone provided partial protection. Histological analyses revealed preservation of hepatic architecture and reduced inflammatory damage in PL220-CNT-immunized animals. Overall, these findings support the potential of bioconjugated CNTs as immunomodulatory nanoplatforms for vaccine development against amoebiasis and other infectious diseases.