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Advances in particle shape engineering for improved drug delivery.
Yiwei Yang1, Di Nie1, Yuan Liu2
1Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 501 Haike Road, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.
Drug Discovery Today
|October 21, 2018
Summary
Nonspherical nanoparticles offer superior drug delivery compared to spherical ones. Particle shape significantly impacts cellular uptake, tissue penetration, and biodistribution, guiding future nanomedicine design.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Spherical particles like liposomes are common drug carriers.
- Nonspherical nanoparticles show potential for improved drug delivery.
- Biological entities like red blood cells exhibit diverse shapes, suggesting shape's importance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of particle shape on drug delivery processes.
- To explore mechanisms influencing shape-dependent delivery.
- To offer perspectives on designing effective nonspherical nanoparticles.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on particle shape and drug delivery.
- Analysis of experimental and computational techniques.
- Synthesis of findings on cellular uptake, tissue penetration, and biodistribution.
Main Results:
- Nonspherical nanoparticles demonstrate advantages over spherical ones in drug delivery.
- Particle shape influences cellular uptake efficiency.
- Shape affects tissue penetration and overall biodistribution patterns.
Conclusions:
- Particle shape is a critical factor in optimizing drug delivery efficacy.
- Understanding shape-mediated mechanisms can enhance nanocarrier design.
- Future research should focus on tailored nonspherical nanoparticle development for improved therapeutic outcomes.
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