Pluronic block copolymers inhibit low density lipoprotein self-association

Little is known about exogenous inhibitors of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) aggregation. The search for nontoxic and bioavailable inhibitors of LDL aggregation is of interest, especially considering that the suppression of the aggregation of LDL might represent a therapeutic approach. We hypothesized that amphiphilic copolymers of propylene oxide and ethylene oxide, the so-called Pluronic block copolymers, can be used to influence the aggregation of LDL. In this work we used Pluronic® P85, L61 and F68. A comparative study of the effects of Pluronic block copolymers with various hydrophilic-lipophilic properties on the aggregation process of LDL showed that Pluronic copolymers with strong hydrophobic properties (P85 and L61) at concentrations close to or greater than the respective critical concentration of micelle formation inhibited the aggregation process of LDL; however, the "hydrophilic" Pluronic F68 had no effect on the aggregation of LDL at any concentration. Thus, the study demonstrated for the first time that Pluronic block copolymers inhibit LDL self-association. The possibility of modulating the aggregation of LDL by various Pluronic copolymers can be regarded as a prerequisite in the creation of new types of anti-atherosclerotic drugs.