Treating glioblastoma with dextrin-based polymers

Dextrins are biodegradable, highly soluble, natural derivatives of starch, which occur in two main forms, either as linear polymers or as cyclic oligosaccharides, commonly known as cyclodextrins. The two structures present favorable features to be exploited in the development of drug delivery systems.

This review explores dextrin- and cyclodextrin-based polymeric systems as innovative platforms for drug delivery in the treatment of glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive and lethal brain tumors. Despite advances in oncology, glioblastoma remains largely incurable due to the absence of effective therapeutic protocols. Consequently, novel strategies are being investigated, including both local and systemic administration of chemotherapeutic and targeted agents. Cyclodextrins, in particular, show promise as drug carriers owing to their ability to interact with the blood - brain barrier and enhance drug permeation. We summarize key preclinical studies employing cyclodextrin-based systems to deliver diverse anticancer agents, including cytotoxic drugs, immunotherapies, oligonucleotides, and antioxidants. Special emphasis is placed on unmet clinical needs, the challenges of experimental models, and the advantages offered by cyclodextrin formulations in glioblastoma therapy.

Albeit far from clinical application, cyclodextrin-based polymers hold a strong potential as innovative treatment against glioblastoma.