Stabilization of layer-by-layer engineered multilayered hollow microspheres.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly creates polymer multilayered hollow microspheres with potential for drug delivery.
• These microspheres often aggregate or fuse in physiological environments due to weak linkages, limiting their application.
• Developing stable microspheres is essential for effective in-vivo drug delivery systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advancements in stabilizing polymer multilayered hollow microspheres.
• To highlight the importance of crosslinking mechanisms for microsphere stability.
• To discuss the challenges and progress in preparing robust microspheres for drug delivery.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly techniques.
• Analysis of crosslinking strategies for enhancing microsphere stability.
• Examination of factors affecting microsphere integrity in various media.

Main Results:

• Identified crosslinking as a key strategy to prevent microsphere fusion and aggregation.
• Highlighted the impact of ionic strength and pH on microsphere stability.
• Demonstrated the potential of stabilized microspheres for drug delivery applications.

Conclusions:

• Crosslinking polymer multilayered hollow microspheres significantly improves their stability in physiological conditions.
• Advanced crosslinking mechanisms are vital for overcoming limitations in current drug delivery systems.
• Further research into robust microsphere fabrication will enhance their therapeutic efficacy.