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Lectin-mediated drug targeting: history and applications
Christiane Bies1, Claus-Michael Lehr, John F Woodley
1Department of Biopharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany.
Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews
|February 19, 2004
Summary
Lectins, proteins that bind sugars, have a long history in drug delivery. Modern lectinology began in 1972, with applications for targeted drug delivery emerging in 1988.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Lectinology's origins trace back to 1888 with ricin's properties.
- The modern era of lectinology started in 1972 with plant lectin purification.
- Lectins are proteins with specific carbohydrate-binding capabilities.
Observation:
- Lectins can target drugs to specific sites of action.
- The concept of using lectins for drug delivery was proposed in 1988.
- Lectins facilitate targeting to the small intestine's luminal surface.
Findings:
- Lectin-sugar interactions can trigger vesicular transport into or across epithelial cells.
- Bioadhesion via lectins is applicable beyond the GI tract.
- Potential applications include nasal mucosa, lung, buccal cavity, eye, and blood-brain barrier.
Implications:
- Lectins offer a versatile platform for targeted drug delivery systems.
- This approach enhances drug efficacy and reduces systemic side effects.
- Future research can explore novel lectin-based strategies for various biological barriers.