Computational and experimental approaches for investigating nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems
M Ramezanpour1, S S W Leung2, K H Delgado-Magnero1
1Centre for Molecular Simulation, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada.
Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta
|March 2, 2016
Summary
Nanoparticles as drug/gene delivery systems (DDSs) overcome therapeutic agent limitations. Computational modeling aids in designing optimized DDSs for targeted delivery, particularly in cancer therapy.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Nanotechnology
- Drug Delivery
Background:
- Therapeutic agents often face challenges like poor solubility, rapid clearance, and ineffective cellular uptake.
- Drug/gene delivery systems (DDSs) are crucial for enhancing drug efficacy by addressing these limitations.
- Nanoparticles represent a significant class of DDSs with potential for targeted therapeutic delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biophysical aspects of nanoparticles as DDSs.
- To explore the role of computational modeling in the rational design of DDSs.
- To summarize experimental and computational approaches for studying nanocarrier interactions.
Main Methods:
- Review of experimental techniques for DDS characterization.
- Analysis of computational studies on various nanocarrier types.
- Discussion of biophysical principles governing DDS performance.
Main Results:
- Nanoparticles can significantly improve drug solubility, circulation time, and targeting.
- Computer modeling provides insights into nanocarrier-drug-biomembrane interactions.
- Diverse nanocarrier platforms (e.g., polymer, lipid, gold) show promise for DDS applications.
Conclusions:
- Nanoparticle-based DDSs offer a promising strategy to overcome drug delivery barriers.
- Integrating experimental and computational methods accelerates the development of optimized DDSs.
- Further research into nanocarrier biophysics and design is essential for advancing targeted therapies.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Site-Targeted
92
Site-targeted drug delivery systems enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic toxicity and treatment costs. Unlike conventional methods, these systems ensure precise drug delivery, improving bioavailability and reducing side effects. Targeted drug delivery is classified into three levels. First-order targeting directs drugs to the capillary beds of specific organs or tissues. Second-order targets specific cell types, such as tumor cells, using receptor-mediated interactions.
92
01:24Site-Targeted Drug Delivery Systems: Polymeric Carriers
106
Polymeric carriers enhance targeted drug delivery by increasing efficacy while minimizing off-target effects. These carriers comprise a biodegradable polymeric backbone integrated with functional elements that enable targeting, improve physicochemical properties, and regulate drug release.Targeting MechanismsThe targeting ability of polymeric carriers is mediated by a homing device, which is a molecular recognition component designed to selectively bind to specific tissues or cells. Monoclonal...
106
01:23Factors Affecting Dissolution: Particle Size and Effective Surface Area
2.0K
Dissolution kinetics, an essential aspect of oral drug delivery, is significantly influenced by the drug's particle size. According to the Noyes-Whitney dissolution model, the dissolution rate correlates directly with the drug's surface area. The larger the surface area, the higher the drug's solubility in water, leading to a faster drug dissolution rate. Reducing particle size increases the effective surface area, enhancing the dissolution process. Micronization and nanosizing are...
2.0K
01:23Oral Drug Delivery Systems: Introduction
207
Oral drug delivery is the most common route of administration due to its convenience, cost-effectiveness, and high patient compliance. It enables precise formulation to ensure proper drug dosage and bioavailability. The development of oral dosage forms considers drug properties such as solubility, stability, and absorption to optimize therapeutic efficacy.Tablets, capsules, liquids, and chewable formulations enhance drug stability, mask undesirable tastes, and improve patient experience.
207