Polymersome-based protein drug delivery - quo vadis?
Micael G Gouveia1, Justus P Wesseler1, Jobbe Ramaekers1
1Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Thomas Graham Building, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, UK.
Chemical Society Reviews
|December 20, 2022
Summary
Polymersomes offer advantages for protein drug delivery but face hurdles in clinical translation. Addressing challenges in polymer choice, production, and in vivo behavior is crucial for their pharmaceutical development.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Chemistry
- Nanomedicine
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
Background:
- Protein therapeutics are a rapidly growing drug class.
- Proteins require protective carriers like liposomes due to denaturation sensitivity.
- Polymersomes emerged as promising nanocarriers with advantages over liposomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review obstacles hindering the clinical translation of polymersome-based protein nanocarriers.
- To identify key areas for research to advance polymersomes for pharmaceutical applications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on polymersome-based protein delivery systems.
- Analysis of challenges from a polymer chemist's perspective.
- Discussion of in vivo behavior and production intricacies.
Main Results:
- No polymersome formulations have reached commercialization despite their potential.
- Key obstacles include non-degradable polymer use, complex production, and in vivo barriers.
- The journey of polymersomes across biological barriers is complex.
Conclusions:
- Overcoming limitations in polymer selection and production is essential.
- Further research into in vivo behavior is needed for clinical viability.
- Advancing polymersomes requires addressing these challenges for successful nanomedical applications.
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