Genetically engineered polymers for drug delivery

Genetic engineering methodology offers the ability to synthesize protein-based polymers with precisely controlled structures. Protein-based polymers synthesized by recombinant techniques have a well-defined monomer composition and sequence, stereochemistry, and a narrow molecular weight distribution. The structure of the polymeric carrier at the molecular level influences its biological disposition and drug release profile. Current methodologies of polymer synthesis (chemical polymerization) result in the production of polymers with heterogeneous molecular weights, and with monomer sequences and compositions defined in terms of statistical distributions. Genetic engineering methodologies can be used to design new polymeric drug carriers with improved properties, such as better-defined biorecognition, pharmacokinetic, biodegradation, and drug release profiles. In this review article the rationale and methodology of polymer synthesis using genetic engineering techniques, the status of such polymers in drug delivery to-date, and the potential of these polymers for the development of new systems in the future are discussed.