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Microbially controlled drug delivery to the colon.
1Hebrew University of Jerusalem, School of Pharmacy, Israel.
Biopharmaceutics & Drug Disposition
|August 1, 1990
Summary
The human gut microbiome influences drug metabolism. Microbial enzymes in the colon can activate prodrugs, enabling targeted drug delivery and enhanced therapeutic efficacy through sophisticated delivery systems.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- The human gastrointestinal tract harbors a complex microbial ecosystem crucial for nutrient and drug metabolism.
- Colonic bacteria ferment undigested substrates, presenting opportunities for targeted drug action in the large bowel.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of microbial-mediated drug delivery systems in the colon.
- To highlight the role of colonic bacteria in activating prodrugs and other drug formulations.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on microbial drug metabolism and delivery systems.
- Analysis of the mechanism of action for azo prodrugs like salazopyrine.
- Examination of bacterial fermentation processes in the colon.
Main Results:
- Colonic bacteria possess enzymatic activity capable of cleaving specific prodrugs, such as salazopyrine, into active parent drugs.
- Drug delivery systems designed to evade small intestinal digestion can be effectively activated or degraded by colonic microbes.
- Established use of azo prodrugs demonstrates the viability of microbial-controlled drug release.
Conclusions:
- The colonic microbiome offers a promising platform for developing targeted drug delivery systems.
- Prodrug strategies leveraging bacterial enzymes can enhance therapeutic outcomes by ensuring localized drug release in the large intestine.