Cyclodextrins-Peptides/Proteins Conjugates: Synthesis, Properties and Applications.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Supramolecular Chemistry

Background:

• Cyclodextrins (CDs) are toroidal macrocyclic oligosaccharides with hydrophilic exteriors and hydrophobic interiors.
• CDs can form inclusion complexes, particularly with hydrophobic molecules, enabling diverse applications.
• Current research often focuses on conjugating CDs with peptides and proteins to create novel systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of cyclodextrin-peptide/protein conjugates in various biomedical applications.
• To highlight the ability of the CD cavity to modulate protein properties.
• To review the use of CD-peptide/protein systems in drug delivery and understanding biomolecular mechanisms.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on cyclodextrin conjugation with peptides and proteins.
• Analysis of applications in drug delivery, including targeted and co-delivery systems.
• Examination of studies investigating biomolecular mechanisms like fibrillation and stem cell behavior.

Main Results:

• CD-peptide/protein conjugates exhibit new abilities, with the CD cavity modulating protein properties.
• Applications include targeted drug delivery via cell-penetrating peptides and co-delivery systems.
• These conjugates aid in understanding complex biomolecular mechanisms and offer controllable properties for targeted therapy.

Conclusions:

• Cyclodextrin-peptide/protein conjugates represent a promising area for biomedical applications.
• They provide novel avenues for conjugating simple molecules to biomolecules.
• Further research into these complex systems can lead to advanced therapeutic strategies.