Nanotechnology Advances Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs): Transition From Basic Research to Clinical...

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Nanotechnology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) are promising therapeutics for degrading disease-associated proteins, especially those intractable to conventional drugs.
• PROTACs show potential in treating refractory diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
• However, clinical use is hindered by issues like large molecular weight, poor solubility, low permeability, and the hook effect.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the mechanisms of action and clinical significance of PROTACs.
• To explore challenges in PROTAC delivery.
• To summarize nanotechnology-based strategies for enhancing PROTAC drug delivery and discuss future perspectives.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of PROTAC mechanisms and nanotechnology applications.
• Analysis of challenges in PROTAC formulation and delivery.
• Synthesis of recent advancements in nanodelivery systems for PROTACs.

Main Results:

• Nanotechnology presents viable solutions to overcome key delivery barriers associated with PROTACs.
• Recent advancements focus on improving solubility, permeability, and mitigating the hook effect through nanocarriers.
• Nanotechnology enhances the therapeutic potential of PROTACs for clinical applications.

Conclusions:

• Nanotechnology significantly improves PROTAC drug delivery efficiency, addressing limitations of traditional PROTACs.
• Further research into nanodelivery strategies is crucial for advancing PROTACs in clinical settings.
• This approach holds promise for developing more effective treatments for complex and refractory diseases.