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From PEGylation to Next-Generation Polymers: Overcoming Biological Barriers-A Review
Rizvangul Iminova1, Gulzat Berganayeva1, Aliya Zhurtbayeva2
1Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty 050040/A15E3B4, Kazakhstan.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 27, 2026
Summary
New polymers offer superior alternatives to poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) in drug delivery, overcoming PEG's limitations like immunogenicity and poor biodegradability for advanced therapeutics.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is a widely used polymer in drug delivery, enhancing solubility and circulation time.
- However, PEG faces challenges including immunogenicity, accelerated clearance, and limited biodegradability.
- These limitations necessitate the development of alternative polymers for improved therapeutic outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on novel polymers designed to replace PEG in drug delivery.
- To analyze how advancements in polymer design address PEG's shortcomings.
- To provide a perspective on the shift towards next-generation drug delivery systems.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of recent studies on PEG alternatives.
- Analysis of polymer design strategies focusing on immunogenicity, biodegradability, and controlled release.
- Synthesis of findings to present a coherent view on the evolution of drug delivery polymers.
Main Results:
- Emerging polymers demonstrate potential to match or exceed PEG's benefits.
- New materials offer reduced immunogenicity and improved biocompatibility.
- Advanced polymer designs allow for finer control over drug release and targeting.
Conclusions:
- Novel polymers represent a significant advancement beyond PEG for drug delivery.
- These next-generation materials promise safer, more versatile, and clinically translatable precision therapeutics.
- The field is shifting towards a new paradigm in targeted drug delivery systems.
Keywords:
PEG alternativesbiodegradable polymerslow-immunogenic polymersnanocarrierstargeted cancer therapyMore Related Videos
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