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Transfollicular drug delivery--is it a reality?
Victor M Meidan1, Michael C Bonner, Bozena B Michniak
1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, SIBS, 27 Taylor Street, Glasgow G4 ONR, Scotland, UK. victor.meidan@strath.ac.uk
International Journal of Pharmaceutics
|November 2, 2005
Summary
Hair follicles and sebaceous glands are emerging as key players in percutaneous drug delivery. Research explores their potential for targeted therapies and systemic drug transport, advancing localized treatment options.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Hair follicles and sebaceous glands, once overlooked, are now recognized for their role in drug delivery.
- Pilosebaceous units offer potential as depots for localized therapy, particularly for skin conditions like acne and alopecia.
- These structures are also being investigated as pathways for systemic drug administration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the anatomy and physiology of pilosebaceous units relevant to drug delivery.
- To examine the design and effectiveness of formulations targeting hair follicles.
- To discuss the development of quantitative models for predicting drug transport via follicles.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of pilosebaceous anatomy and physiology.
- Analysis of studies on follicle-targeting drug formulations.
- Examination of quantitative modeling approaches in drug delivery.
Main Results:
- Pilosebaceous units possess unique anatomical and physiological characteristics suitable for drug delivery.
- Targeted formulations demonstrate potential for localized and systemic drug delivery through follicles.
- Quantitative models are emerging as valuable tools for optimizing follicle-mediated drug delivery.
Conclusions:
- Hair follicles and sebaceous glands represent a promising frontier in percutaneous drug delivery.
- Further research and novel developments are expected to enhance the application of pilosebaceous units for therapeutic purposes.
- Understanding these structures is crucial for advancing targeted and efficient drug administration strategies.