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Updated: Oct 22, 2025

Multi-timescale Microscopy Methods for the Characterization of Fluorescently-labeled Microbubbles for Ultrasound-Triggered Drug Release
Published on: June 12, 2021
Ultrasound-induced biophysical effects in controlled drug delivery
Lulu Zhang1, Zhuohua Lin1, Lan Zeng1
1Department of Ultrasound, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
Abstract:
Ultrasound is widely used in biomedical engineering and has applications in conventional diagnosis and drug delivery. Recent advances in ultrasound-induced drug delivery have been summarized previously in several reviews that have primarily focused on the fabrication of drug delivery carriers. This review discusses the mechanisms underlying ultrasound-induced drug delivery and factors affecting delivery efficiency, including the characteristics of drug delivery carriers and ultrasound parameters. Firstly, biophysical effects induced by ultrasound, namely thermal effects, cavitation effects, and acoustic radiation forces, are illustrated. Secondly, the use of these biophysical effects to enhance drug delivery by affecting drug carriers and corresponding tissues is clarified in detail. Thirdly, recent advances in ultrasound-triggered drug delivery are detailed. Safety issues and optimization strategies to improve therapeutic outcomes and reduce side effects are summarized. Finally, current progress and future directions are discussed.
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