Recent Progress of Alkyl Radicals Generation-Based Agents for Biomedical Applications

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Theranostics

Background:

• Photodynamic therapy (PDT) relies on oxygen-dependent reactive oxygen species (ROS), limiting its efficacy in hypoxic tumors and infected wounds.
• Alkyl radicals, generated from azo-based initiators via mild heating without oxygen, present an alternative therapeutic strategy.
• Nanocarriers and hydrogels are utilized for delivering these radical initiators to target sites for theranostic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review materials designed for treating hypoxic cancer and bacteria-infected wounds using oxygen-independent alkyl radicals.
• To categorize these therapeutic systems based on their carrier components (inorganic, organic, hybrid).
• To highlight the construction and biomedical advantages of these agents.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of nanocarrier and hydrogel systems for alkyl radical delivery.
• Categorization of systems based on inorganic, organic, and hybrid carrier compositions.
• Analysis of the therapeutic mechanisms and theranostic capabilities.

Main Results:

• Development of inorganic, organic, and hybrid carrier-based systems for alkyl radical delivery.
• Demonstrated anticancer and antimicrobial effects in hypoxic environments.
• Incorporation of imaging capabilities in some systems for precise treatment guidance.

Conclusions:

• Oxygen-independent alkyl radicals are a viable strategy for treating hypoxic conditions, overcoming PDT limitations.
• The reviewed materials show significant potential in theranostics for cancer and infection.
• Further research is needed to address existing challenges and explore future development directions.