Non-spherical particles for targeted drug delivery

Jinrong Chen, Nicholas E. Clay, No hyung Park, Hyunjoon Kong

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Nano- and microparticles loaded with various bioimaging contrast agents or therapeutic molecules have been increasingly used for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and tissue defects. These particles, often a filled or hollow sphere, can extend the lifetime of encapsulated biomedical modalities in circulation and in target tissue. However, there is a great need to improve the drug loading and targeting efficiency of these particles. Recently, several simulations and in vitro experimental studies reported that particle shape plays a pivotal role in the targeted delivery of molecules. To better understand these findings and subsequently expedite the use of particles in biomedical applications, this review paper summarizes the methods to prepare non-spherical nano- and micro-scaled particles. In addition, this review covers studies reporting the effects of particle shape on the loading, delivery, and release of encapsulated bioactive cargos. Finally, it discusses future directions to further improve the properties of non-spherical particles.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)20-24
Number of pages5
JournalChemical Engineering Science
Volume125
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 4 2015

Keywords

  • Drug loading
  • Non-spherical particles
  • Particle fabrication
  • Release rate
  • Targeting efficiency

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Chemistry(all)
  • Chemical Engineering(all)
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

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