Evaluation of dendrimer safety and efficacy through cell line studies

Dendrimers, by virtue of their therapeutic value, have recently generated enormous interest among biomedical scientists. Advancement of dendrimeric nano-architecture with well defined size, shape and controlled exterior functionality embraces promise in biomedical and pharmaceutical applications such as drug delivery, solubilization, DNA transfection and diagnosis. Highly branched, monodisperse, stable molecular level and low polydispersity with micelle-like behavior possessing nano-scale container property distinguish these structures as inimitable and optimum carrier for those applications. Dendrimers has been evaluated for delivery of different types of bioactives inside the cells. Different types of techniques are being used for exploring dendrimer safety and efficacy via cell cytotoxicity assays, cell uptake studies by fluorescent microscopy, cell line studies, flow cytometry, gamma scintigraphy and confocal microscopy; are being used over a decade. Among these, cell line studies are widely used for ex vivo characterization of dendrimers and other nanocarriers. Cell lines are homogeneous population of cells, stable after mitosis, and have an unlimited capacity for division. This review focuses on the use of different cell line studies including anticancer drugs, anti-HIV drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-tubercular-drugs, photodynamic therapy, hormonal therapy employing dendritic nanocarrier.