Biological Cells as Therapeutic Delivery Vehicles

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Cellular Therapeutics

Background:

• Targeted drug delivery remains a significant challenge in medicine, with engineered nanoparticles facing issues in targeting specificity, toxicity, and immunogenicity.
• Live cells possess inherent targeting capabilities, presenting a promising alternative for efficient drug accumulation at diseased sites.
• Genetic modification and cellular reprogramming can confer desired therapeutic phenotypes when native cell types are insufficient.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in utilizing live cells as sophisticated drug delivery vehicles.
• To highlight the potential of cellular therapeutics in overcoming the limitations of traditional drug delivery systems.
• To explore diverse cell types being investigated for therapeutic applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on cell-based drug delivery systems.
• Analysis of strategies involving genetically engineered cells and gene circuits for therapeutic reprogramming.
• Examination of specific cell types employed as drug carriers, including red blood cells, platelets, neutrophils, mesenchymal stem cells, and bacteria.

Main Results:

• Live cells demonstrate innate targeting mechanisms that can be leveraged for enhanced drug accumulation in specific tissues.
• Engineered cells and gene circuits offer customizable solutions for therapeutic delivery, addressing limitations of native cell phenotypes.
• Various cell types, including RBCs, platelets, neutrophils, MSCs, and bacteria, show potential as effective drug delivery platforms.

Conclusions:

• Cell-based drug delivery represents a significant advancement over nanoparticle-based systems, offering improved targeting and reduced side effects.
• The strategic use of genetically modified cells and diverse cell types holds great promise for future therapeutic strategies.
• Further research into cellular drug delivery vehicles is crucial for realizing their full clinical potential.