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Layer-by-layer-assembled capsules and films for therapeutic delivery
Alisa L Becker1, Angus P R Johnston, Frank Caruso
1Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
Small (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany)
|August 18, 2010
Summary
Layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly creates advanced polymeric materials for drug delivery. These versatile capsules and films offer high drug payloads and tunable properties for therapeutic applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Polymeric materials assembled via layer-by-layer (LbL) technology show significant potential as drug delivery systems.
- These multilayered structures, in capsule or thin film formats, can effectively encapsulate substantial amounts of sensitive or toxic drugs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in LbL-assembled materials for therapeutic devices.
- To identify key areas needing further research for future development in LbL drug delivery.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of various drug-loading techniques and administration routes.
- Analysis of biological barriers impacting drug delivery and potential solutions.
- Presentation of current degradation and cargo release mechanisms.
Main Results:
- LbL materials offer high drug encapsulation efficiency.
- Engineered LbL systems can be functionalized for specific therapeutic needs.
- Review covers diverse loading methods, delivery routes, and release strategies.
Conclusions:
- LbL assembly is a promising platform for developing sophisticated drug delivery vehicles.
- Addressing biological barriers and optimizing release mechanisms are crucial for clinical translation.
- Continued research is essential to fully realize the therapeutic potential of LbL-assembled materials.
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