Aerosols for systemic delivery of macromolecules

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Pharmacology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Aerosol therapy with small molecules is a primary treatment for chronic lung diseases like asthma, COPD, and cystic fibrosis.
• Recent advancements have enabled the development of systemic pulmonary therapy, delivering macromolecules via the lungs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the evolution of aerosol therapy from small molecules for lung diseases to macromolecules for systemic diseases.
• To discuss the potential of deep lung delivery for noninvasive systemic treatments.

Main Methods:

• Review of advancements in dry powder drug formulations.
• Analysis of new aerosol delivery technologies.
• Exploration of the deep lung's potential for systemic drug absorption.

Main Results:

• Systemic delivery of proteins and peptides through the lung is now feasible.
• Dry powder formulations and aerosol technology are key enablers.
• Noninvasive treatment of systemic diseases like diabetes mellitus is a likely outcome.

Conclusions:

• Pulmonary drug delivery is expanding beyond lung diseases to treat systemic conditions.
• Advanced aerosol technologies are poised to revolutionize medication administration.
• Noninvasive systemic therapy via the deep lung is expected to become widespread within a decade.