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Nanocarriers targeting the diseases of the pancreas
Nurbanu Demirtürk1, Erem Bilensoy1
1Hacettepe University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, 06100 Ankara, Turkey.
Abstract:
Diseases of the pancreas include acute and chronic pancreatitis, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, diabetes and pancreatic cancer. These pathologies can be difficult to treat due to the innate properties of the pancreas, its structure and localization. The need for effective targeting of the pancreatic tissue by means of nanoparticles delivering therapeutics is a major focus area covered and discussed in this review. Most common diseases of the pancreas do not have specific and direct medical treatment option, and existing treatment options are generally aimed at relieving symptoms. Diabetes has different treatment options for different subtypes based on insulin having stability problems and requiring injections reducing patient compliance. Pancreatic cancer progresses silently and can only be diagnosed in advanced stages. Therefore, survival rate of patients is very low. Gemcitabine and FOLFIRINOX treatment regimens, the most commonly used clinical standard treatments, are generally insufficient due to the chemoresistance that develops in cancer cells and also various side effects. Therefore new treatment options for pancreatic cancer are also under focus. Overcoming drug resistance and pancreatic targeting can be achieved with active and passive targeting methods, and a more effective and safer treatment regimen can be provided at lower drug doses. This review covers the current literature and clinical trials concerning pancreatic drug delivery systems in the nanoscale focusing on the challenges and opportunities provided by these smart delivery systems.
Insights
Nanoparticle drug delivery systems offer a promising approach to overcome challenges in treating pancreatic diseases, including cancer and diabetes. These advanced systems aim for targeted delivery, enhancing therapeutic efficacy and reducing side effects.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pancreatic diseases such as pancreatitis, diabetes, and pancreatic cancer present significant treatment challenges due to the organ's unique properties.
- Current treatments often focus on symptom management rather than addressing underlying pathologies, with limited efficacy and patient compliance issues, especially for diabetes and pancreatic cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature and clinical trials on nanoscale drug delivery systems for pancreatic diseases.
- To explore the potential of targeted nanoparticle-based therapies to improve treatment outcomes for pancreatic pathologies.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of existing research and clinical studies on pancreatic drug delivery systems.
- Analysis of active and passive targeting strategies for nanoparticles in pancreatic tissue.
- Discussion of challenges and opportunities in developing smart nanodelivery systems.
Main Results:
- Nanoparticle-based drug delivery shows potential for overcoming drug resistance and improving therapeutic targeting in the pancreas.
- Targeted delivery systems can enable lower drug doses, potentially reducing side effects and enhancing patient safety.
- Smart delivery systems offer a pathway to more effective and safer treatment regimens for complex pancreatic conditions.
Conclusions:
- Nanoscale drug delivery systems represent a significant advancement in addressing the limitations of current pancreatic disease treatments.
- Further research and clinical trials are warranted to fully realize the therapeutic potential of these targeted nanotechnologies for pancreatic pathologies.
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