Application of calcium phosphate as a controlled-release device

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Drug Delivery Systems
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Calcium phosphate (CaP)-based compounds are biocompatible and biodegradable, showing promise for drug delivery.
• Existing drug delivery systems, like alginate gels, face challenges with rapid degradation in acidic environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of calcium phosphate (CaP) as a versatile material for advanced drug delivery systems.
• To develop and evaluate injectable CaP cements and nanocapsules for enhanced therapeutic effects.

Main Methods:

• Development of injectable self-setting apatite cement for plasmid DNA complex delivery.
• Preparation of CaP nanocapsules encapsulating plasmid DNA or drug micelles.
• Incorporation of amorphous CaP powder into alginate gels to control pH and drug release.

Main Results:

• Injectable CaP cement demonstrated durable gene expression and therapeutic effects in solid tumors.
• CaP nanocapsules exhibited high stability against enzymatic and protein degradation.
• CaP-modified alginate gels provided sustained drug release and therapeutic benefits for osteoporosis in acidic conditions.

Conclusions:

• Calcium phosphate is a valuable material for drug delivery systems, functioning as a slow-releasing reservoir, protective coating, and pH buffer.
• CaP enhances the efficacy of gene therapy and treatments for conditions like osteoporosis.
• CaP-based materials offer a stable and effective platform for developing next-generation drug delivery solutions.