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Updated: May 21, 2026

Models and Methods to Evaluate Transport of Drug Delivery Systems Across Cellular Barriers
Published on: October 17, 2013
Analysis of absorption enhancers in epithelial cell models
Rita Rosenthal1, Miriam S Heydt, Maren Amasheh
1Institute of Clinical Physiology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität and Humboldt Universität, Berlin, Germany.
Novel drug delivery utilizes compounds to temporarily open epithelial paracellular pathways for macromolecule passage. This approach enhances drug absorption while minimizing adverse effects by targeting tight junctions and claudins.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Novel drug delivery strategies are exploring chemical compounds to enhance macromolecule transport across epithelial barriers.
- Selective opening of the paracellular pathway is a promising approach for drug translocation.
- Rapid and reversible action of these compounds is crucial to balance drug delivery and prevent adverse effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in absorption-enhancing effects of compounds targeting epithelial paracellular permeability.
- To investigate the selectivity and underlying mechanisms of these compounds.
- To understand the role of tight junctions and claudins in modulating barrier function.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on chemical compounds affecting paracellular permeability.
- Analysis of mechanisms involving calcium (Ca2+) chelators, bacterial toxins, and other agents.
- Focus on the role of claudins in regulating epithelial barrier properties.
Main Results:
- Certain compounds can selectively open paracellular pathways for macromolecule passage.
- The action of these compounds needs to be rapid and reversible to be therapeutically useful.
- Claudins are key proteins within tight junctions that determine tissue-specific barrier functions.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the mechanisms of absorption enhancers is vital for developing effective drug delivery systems.
- Targeting tight junctions and claudins offers a precise strategy for controlled macromolecule transport.
- Further research into selectivity and reversibility will optimize the use of these compounds in drug delivery.
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