Layer-by-layer assembly for drug delivery and related applications

Area of Science:

• Materials Science and Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• High-performance drug delivery systems rely on the assembly and hybridization of multiple components.
• The layer-by-layer (LbL) adsorption technique provides extensive flexibility in material selection and structural design for complex fabrication needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review film-type LbL assemblies and their applications in drug delivery.
• To summarize recent advances in LbL techniques for delivering various therapeutic agents and hybrid organic/inorganic structures.

Main Methods:

• Focus on film-type layer-by-layer (LbL) assemblies and their drug delivery applications.
• Review of selected examples from recent years, including delivery of low-molecular-mass drugs, DNA, peptides, and proteins.
• Examination of recent advances in film structures composed of organic/inorganic hybrids.

Main Results:

• Layer-by-layer (LbL) assemblies demonstrate significant progress in bio-related areas.
• Successful application in the delivery of diverse therapeutic agents, including small molecules, nucleic acids, and proteins.
• Advancements in creating sophisticated film structures using organic/inorganic hybrid materials.

Conclusions:

• The inherent versatility of LbL assembly, with adjustable layer structure, component selection, and surface properties (biocompatibility, degradability, size), can address practical challenges in therapeutics delivery.
• The simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the LbL technique meet stringent economic requirements for widespread adoption.