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Polymer therapeutics: Top 10 selling pharmaceuticals - what next?
1Polymer Therapeutics Lab., Centro de Investigacion Príncipe Felipe, Av. Autopista del Saler 16, E-46012 Valencia, Spain; School of Science, University of Greenwich, Central Avenue, Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK.
Summary
Polymer therapeutics have evolved from scientific curiosities to significant pharmaceutical products. Further advances promise more clinical applications for these advanced drug delivery systems.
Area of Science:
- Polymer science and pharmaceutical development.
- Bioconjugation chemistry.
- Drug delivery systems.
Background:
- Polymer therapeutics, including polymer-drug conjugates and block copolymer micelles, were initially viewed as niche scientific concepts.
- The perception has shifted dramatically, with major pharmaceutical companies investing in R&D and key products achieving top sales.
- The field has seen significant growth since the inception of the Journal of Controlled Release (JCR).
Purpose of the Study:
- To reflect on the evolution and current status of polymer therapeutics.
- To highlight the transition of polymer therapeutics from theoretical concepts to clinically relevant medicines.
- To discuss future opportunities for advancing polymer therapeutics in medicine and imaging.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of polymer therapeutics.
- Analysis of market trends and clinical applications.
- Discussion of scientific advancements in polymer chemistry and related disciplines.
Main Results:
- Two polymer therapeutics, Copaxone and Neulasta, ranked in the Top 10 US pharmaceutical sales in 2013.
- A growing number of marketed polymer-based products exist, including PEGylated proteins and oral polymeric sequestrants.
- Despite progress, polymer-drug conjugates and block copolymer micelle products are yet to achieve widespread clinical use.
Conclusions:
- Industrial familiarity and scientific progress are accelerating the translation of polymer therapeutics into clinical practice.
- Future opportunities lie in improving the successful translation of polymer therapeutics for medicinal and imaging applications.
- The field continues to evolve, building upon decades of research documented in journals like JCR.
Keywords:
Block copolymer micellesCritical quality attributesPEGylated proteinsPolymer therapeuticsPolymer–drug conjugatesMore Related Videos
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