Research advances in peptide‒drug conjugates.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) represent an advanced prodrug strategy.
• PDCs involve a drug covalently attached to a peptide via a cleavable linker.
• They aim to leverage peptide properties for enhanced drug delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the components and mechanisms of peptide-drug conjugates.
• To summarize the clinical applications and challenges associated with PDC drugs.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of this emerging drug delivery system.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on peptides, linkers, and drugs used in PDC construction.
• Analysis of the mechanisms by which PDCs function.
• Summary of current clinical applications and identified challenges.

Main Results:

• PDCs preserve peptide bioactivity while enabling responsive drug release.
• They significantly improve *in vivo* circulation stability and drug targeting.
• PDCs have demonstrated potential in reducing drug-induced toxic side effects.

Conclusions:

• Peptide-drug conjugates offer a promising approach for targeted and stable drug delivery.
• Further research and development are needed to overcome existing challenges in PDC clinical application.
• PDCs represent a significant advancement in prodrug strategies with broad therapeutic potential.