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Updated: Oct 13, 2025

Facile Preparation and Photoactivation of Prodrug-Dye Nanoassemblies
Published on: February 17, 2023
Light mediated drug delivery systems: a review
1Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, Dartmouth, MA, USA.
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.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Novel drug delivery requires site-specificity and dosage control.
- Light-responsive systems offer superior spatio-temporal control compared to other stimuli.
- Ultraviolet (UV) and near-infrared (NIR) light have advanced therapeutic functionalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolution of light-activated targeted drug delivery systems.
- To highlight the critical role of biomaterials in developing these advanced systems.
- To explore the integration of up-conversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) for theranostic applications.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on light-activated drug delivery mechanisms.
- Analysis of biomaterial integration with photosensitizers.
- Examination of biological macromolecules in light-controlled transport.
Main Results:
- Light offers precise control over drug release kinetics and targeting.
- Biomaterials incorporating photosensitizers are key for light responsiveness.
- Up-conversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) enable theranostic capabilities.
- Biological macromolecules facilitate drug, gene, and protein delivery via light-controlled systems.
Conclusions:
- Light-activated systems represent a significant advancement in targeted drug delivery.
- Biomaterials are essential for translating light-controlled delivery into clinical success.
- Further research into these systems promises enhanced therapeutic efficacy and patient outcomes.
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