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Anionic Polymerization of an Amphiphilic Copolymer for Preparation of Block Copolymer Micelles Stabilized by π-π Stacking Interactions
Published on: October 10, 2016
Polymer-Mediated Delivery of Amphotericin B for Fungal Infections
Yongnan Chen1, Fang Liu1, Qiao Jin1,2
1MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
Abstract:
Invasive fungal infections have been an increasingly global issue with high mortality. Amphotericin B (AmB), as the "gold standard" antifungal drug, has broad-spectrum antifungal activity and low clinical resistance. Therefore, AmB is the most commonly used polyene antibiotic for the treatment of invasive fungal infections. However, the serious side effects as well as the low bioavailability of AmB strongly restrict its clinical applications. Polymer, with its diversified molecular design, is widely used in drug delivery in the form of polymeric prodrugs, nanoparticles, hydrogels, etc. Therefore, polymers hold great promise for the delivery of AmB in treating fungal infections. This review summarizes recent advances in polymer-based delivery systems of AmB for the treatment of fungal infections, including polymer-AmB conjugates, nanotechnology-based polymeric delivery systems, hydrogels, and polymeric microneedles. Taking advantage of polymer-based delivery strategies, special attention is paid to reducing the side effects and improving the bioavailability of AmB for safe and effective antifungal therapy. Finally, the limitations and possible future directions of polymer-based AmB delivery systems are discussed.
Insights
Polymer-based delivery systems offer a promising solution to improve the effectiveness of Amphotericin B (AmB), a key antifungal drug. These advanced strategies aim to reduce AmB
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Biomaterials Science
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Invasive fungal infections pose a significant global health threat with high mortality rates.
- Amphotericin B (AmB) is a crucial antifungal agent but is limited by severe side effects and poor bioavailability.
- Polymers offer versatile platforms for developing advanced drug delivery systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in polymer-based delivery systems for Amphotericin B (AmB).
- To highlight strategies for mitigating AmB's toxicity and enhancing its therapeutic efficacy.
- To discuss the future prospects of polymer-drug conjugates, nanoparticles, hydrogels, and microneedles for antifungal therapy.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of polymer-based Amphotericin B delivery systems.
- Analysis of various polymeric formulations including conjugates, nanoparticles, hydrogels, and microneedles.
- Evaluation of studies focusing on improved bioavailability and reduced toxicity of AmB.
Main Results:
- Polymer-based strategies demonstrate potential in enhancing Amphotericin B's bioavailability.
- Formulations like polymeric nanoparticles and conjugates show promise in reducing AmB-associated side effects.
- Diverse polymer architectures enable tailored delivery for improved antifungal treatment.
Conclusions:
- Polymer-based delivery systems represent a significant advancement in overcoming Amphotericin B's limitations.
- These innovative approaches are crucial for developing safer and more effective treatments for invasive fungal infections.
- Further research into novel polymer designs and delivery mechanisms is warranted for optimized antifungal therapy.
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