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Charge-convertible polymers for improved tumor targeting and enhanced therapy
Yi Li1, Hong Yu Yang2, Thavasyappan Thambi1
1School of Chemical Engineering and Theranostic Macromolecules Research Center, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
Biomaterials
|June 30, 2019
Summary
Charge-convertible polymers offer smart biomaterial solutions for disease treatment. These intelligent polymers can target cancer cells and deliver therapeutics precisely by changing their electrical charge.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Intelligent polymers possess the unique ability to alter their charge in response to environmental stimuli.
- This characteristic enables the development of advanced biomaterials for therapeutic applications.
- Charge-convertible polymers are particularly promising for targeted drug delivery and controlled release systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the properties of charge-convertible polymers.
- To explore their applications in cancer and stroke treatment.
- To discuss future clinical potential and limitations of these biomaterials.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of charge-convertible polymer properties.
- Analysis of applications in drug delivery and biomaterial design.
- Discussion of clinical translation challenges and opportunities.
Main Results:
- Charge-convertible polymers can be engineered into nanoparticles that target tumor cells via charge switching.
- These polymers facilitate complex formation with therapeutic agents for site-specific release.
- Applications in cancer therapy and stroke treatment have been demonstrated.
Conclusions:
- Charge-convertible polymers show significant promise for advanced disease treatment strategies.
- Targeted drug delivery and controlled release are key advantages.
- Further research is needed to overcome limitations for widespread clinical adoption.
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