Poly-epsilon-caprolactone microspheres and nanospheres: an overview

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Poly-epsilon-caprolactone (PCL) is a biodegradable, biocompatible, semicrystalline polymer with a low glass transition temperature.
• Its slow degradation rate makes PCL suitable for extended drug delivery (over one year).
• PCL is utilized in various drug delivery systems, including microspheres, nanospheres, and implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advancements in Poly-epsilon-caprolactone (PCL)-based microspheres and nanospheres.
• To focus on the preparation methods for these PCL-based delivery systems.
• To assess the suitability of PCL microspheres and nanospheres for effective drug delivery.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on Poly-epsilon-caprolactone (PCL) based drug delivery systems.
• Analysis of preparation techniques for PCL microspheres and nanospheres.
• Evaluation of drug release characteristics from PCL formulations.

Main Results:

• Poly-epsilon-caprolactone (PCL) is extensively used for preparing drug-loaded microspheres and nanospheres.
• Various methods exist for preparing PCL-based delivery systems, influencing drug release profiles.
• PCL copolymers can be employed to tailor drug release characteristics.

Conclusions:

• Poly-epsilon-caprolactone (PCL) is a versatile material for developing long-term, controlled drug delivery systems.
• The preparation method significantly impacts the efficacy of PCL microspheres and nanospheres.
• PCL-based systems show great promise for targeted drug delivery and controlled release applications.