Light mediated drug delivery systems: a review

Mishal Pokharel1, Kihan Park2

  • 1Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, Dartmouth, MA, USA.

Journal of Drug Targeting
|November 11, 2021
PubMed
Summary

Light-activated drug delivery systems offer precise control over medication release. Biomaterials enhance these systems, enabling targeted therapies and theranostic applications for improved clinical outcomes.

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The selection of a drug's delivery route depends upon its physicochemical properties, including lipid or water solubility and ionization, as well as the therapeutic requirement, such as immediate or sustained effect. These routes can be divided into three primary categories: enteral, parenteral, and topical.
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Drug Delivery: Miscellaneous Routes01:22

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Drug delivery methods like oral inhalation, nasal sprays, transdermal patches, eye drops, intravitreal injection,  and rectal administration provide localized effects with reduced toxicity.
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Bioavailability Enhancement: Drug Permeability Enhancement01:27

Bioavailability Enhancement: Drug Permeability Enhancement

Body:After oral administration, poor permeability often limits the rate at which drugs are absorbed through the intestinal epithelium. Enhancing drug permeability is crucial for effective therapy, and several strategies have been developed to overcome this challenge.One effective strategy involves the use of lipid-based formulations. These formulations enhance dissolution and solubility, targeting physiological mechanisms to increase drug absorption. This includes stimulating bile salt...
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Drug Absorption Mechanism: Carrier-Mediated Membrane Transport01:19

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Carrier-Mediated Transport01:06

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Carrier-mediated transport is a pivotal process in drug absorption, particularly for lipid-insoluble drugs, and encompasses facilitated diffusion and active transport. Facilitated diffusion allows drugs to move along their concentration gradient without energy expenditure, while active transport utilizes ATP to drive drug movement against this gradient.
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Drug Delivery: Parenteral Route01:29

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The parenteral route is a critical method of drug administration. It delivers compounds directly into the systemic circulation and bypasses the gastrointestinal tract. This approach is particularly advantageous for drugs that exhibit poor absorption or instability when administered orally.
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