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Cyclodextrin platforms for siRNA delivery: turning design into new therapies
Dhiraj P Sonje1, Sarika Wairkar1
1Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM'S NMIMS, V. L. Mehta Road, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai, India.
International Journal of Pharmaceutics
|May 9, 2026
Summary
Cyclodextrins (CDs) offer a promising solution for delivering small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapeutics. These nanocarriers enhance stability, cellular uptake, and therapeutic efficacy for various diseases.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Small interfering RNA (siRNA) enables gene silencing but faces delivery challenges like instability and poor uptake.
- Cyclodextrins (CDs), cyclic oligosaccharides, are explored as non-viral nanocarriers for siRNA due to their biocompatibility and complex-forming abilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review CD-mediated siRNA delivery mechanisms.
- To highlight the design and functionalization of CD-based nanocarriers for enhanced siRNA delivery.
- To discuss innovative strategies and translational potential of CD-based siRNA therapies.
Main Methods:
- Exploration of CD-mediated siRNA delivery mechanisms.
- Analysis of CD-based nanocarrier design, including polyrotaxanes and polymer conjugates.
- Review of advanced strategies like pH-responsive and enzyme-activated systems.
- Investigation of co-delivery approaches with other therapeutics.
Main Results:
- CD-based nanocarriers improve siRNA stability, cellular uptake, and bioavailability.
- Functionalized CDs with targeting ligands enhance specificity and circulation.
- Co-delivery with other drugs demonstrates synergistic therapeutic effects.
- Novel responsive CD systems improve intracellular trafficking and gene silencing.
Conclusions:
- CDs are versatile nanocarriers for effective siRNA delivery across diverse diseases.
- Advanced functionalization and responsive systems are key to overcoming delivery barriers.
- CD-based platforms hold significant translational potential for next-generation siRNA therapies.
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