Announcements

We are thrilled to share the updated Pharmaceutics Exceptional Reviewers List for 2025. This program was designed to recognize and honor scholars delivering consistently exceptional review reports to our journal. 

Committed to fostering rigorous research and promoting knowledge exchange, Pharmaceutics recognizes the significant role our reviewers play in maintaining the quality and integrity of the articles we publish. According to surveys conducted in 2024, 92% of our authors rate the peer review as good or excellent, thanks to our pool of excellent reviewers. 

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to all the reviewers who have generously volunteered their time and expertise to assist in Pharmaceutics’ peer review process. Their dedication and attention to detail in evaluating manuscripts, offering valuable feedback, and contributing to academic rigor are truly commendable. 

The Exceptional Reviewers List was introduced in April 2025. Each quarter, we will be selecting a group of outstanding reviewers and introduce them here. 

Q1
Name: Dr. Jacinta O. Pinho
Affiliation: Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro; Portugal
“Jacinta Pinho holds a Ph.D. in Pharmacy, specialty Pharmaceutical Technology, awarded by the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisboa. Currently, she is a researcher at the Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro. As a researcher and author, Jacinta interests focus on lipid-based nanosystems, cancer theranostics, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection therapy, antimicrobial resistance, and One Health approach. Jacinta often collaborates with journals as a reviewer and since 2023 has completed 34 reviews, with 6 of them for Pharmaceutics. This is a very enriching experience that provides valuable insights to both authors and reviewers, helping the scientific community to share knowledge and promote research advancements.” 

Name: Dr. Sara Demartis
Affiliation: Institute of genetic and biomedical research (IRGB), National Research Council (CNR), Sassari, Italy
Interests: skin drug delivery; skin diseases; melanoma drug delivery; rosacea drug delivery; lipid nanoparticles; liposomes 

Name: Dr. Pradeep Kumar Jaiswal
Affiliation: Texas A&M University, College Station Texas 77843, USA
Interests: medicinal chemistry; biochemistry; organocatalysis; natural product synthesis; stereoselective synthesis; electrochemistry; Ti-Li enolate chemistry; anti-infectious agents; anticancer agents; chiral methodology; nanomaterial synthesis; antitubercular agents; antimicrobial agents; antioxidant agents 

Name: Dr. Weikang Hu
Affiliation: School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
Interests: 3D printing; biomaterials; electrospun nanofibers; hydrogels; regenerative medicine; biomedical polymers 

Name: Dr. Joanna Kołodziejczyk-Czepas
Affiliation: Department of General Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 141/143 Pomorska, 90-236 Lodz, Poland
Interests: hemostasis; oxidative stress; antioxidants; plant-derived compounds; anticoagulants; blood platelets; biochemistry 

Name: Dr. Barbara Conway
Affiliation: Department of Pharmacy, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield HD1 3DH, UK
Interests: pharmacy; drug delivery; formulation

We announce Dr. Junjie Li as the winner of the Pharmaceutics 2025 Young Investigator Award. The Pharmaceutics Young Investigator Award was established in 2018 to acknowledge the achievements of young investigators in the field of pharmaceutics. All winners were chosen by the journal’s award committee.

Name: Dr. Junjie Li
Affiliation: Kyushu University, Japan
Research interests: biomaterials; nanotechnology; drug delivery

We were honored to interview Dr. Junjie Li. Let us hear his opinions and hear about his experiences with scientific research and awards. The interview is summarized below:

1. Could you give a brief introduction of yourself to the readers? Can you introduce your current research direction and provide an update on your progress?

I am Junjie Li, an Associate Professor at Kyushu University, Japan, specializing in polymer-based pharmaceutics and bioactive materials. My research centers on the design and development of stimuli-responsive polymeric biomaterials for advanced biomedical applications, with a particular focus on drug delivery systems, biocompatible coatings, and tissue engineering strategies. Over the years, I have been especially dedicated to creating new nanoplatforms—such as polymersome-based nanoreactors—to tackle key challenges in targeted drug delivery and controlled therapeutic release. Since joining Kyushu University, I have broadened the scope of my work to include the design of macroscopic, surface-engineered polymer coatings that are both biocompatible and bioactive, aimed at enhancing the performance of medical devices. A central theme of my research is the exploration of biointerface interactions, which is critical for optimizing the functionality, safety, and clinical translation of these materials.

2. Which research topics do you think will be of particular interest to the research community in the coming years?

I believe that the convergence of smart, stimuli-responsive materials with cutting-edge fabrication techniques—such as 3D printing and AI-driven design—has the potential to revolutionize the field of biomedical engineering. Equally transformative is the development of bioactive materials capable of modulating the immune system or the microbiome, which opens promising avenues for the treatment of complex diseases such as cancer and autoimmune disorders. A particularly exciting frontier lies in merging polymer chemistry with the principles of structural biology and computational design to create foldable, functional macromolecules. These next-generation materials not only expand the existing toolkit for targeted drug delivery but also pave the way for entirely new therapeutic paradigms, such as synthetic biocatalysts and adaptive biomaterials that can evolve in real time in response to dynamic biological cues.

3. Could you share any particularly interesting or unexpected results you have discovered so far in your research?

One particularly intriguing finding from our work on polyion complex materials challenges a long-held paradigm in the design of stealth biomaterials. While probing mechanisms underlying immune evasion, we discovered that the stabilization of intermolecular ion-pair networks—rather than the conventional emphasis on maximizing steric repulsion—can significantly reduce protein adsorption and macrophage uptake. This “steric stabilization-independent stealth effect” runs counter to traditional approaches that rely heavily on flexible polymer brushes, such as PEG, to achieve stealth properties. What makes this discovery compelling is its potential to shift the design paradigm from entropy-driven strategies toward a more structurally holistic framework, opening new avenues for creating stealth and functional materials with enhanced biological performance.

4. Do you have any advice for aspiring young researchers looking to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields?

You don’t need a perfectly mapped-out life plan to thrive in science. Many researchers—myself included—find their way through exploration, uncertainty, and gradual self-discovery. It’s completely normal to feel unsure about where you’re headed or whether your work is meaningful. What matters most is staying curious and committed. Trust that curiosity-driven work holds value, even if its full impact isn’t immediately obvious. Surround yourself with mentors who see your potential and collaborators who challenge and inspire you. Sometimes, when your own confidence wavers, it helps to lean on others’ belief in you. Making a meaningful impact often takes time—it’s rooted in developing deep understanding and expertise. Don’t shy away from long, difficult projects; those are the ones that shape your skills and credibility.

Think of yourself as an explorer, not just a competitor. Focus on the journey of discovery, embrace the uncertainty and let that guide you forward.

5. As the winner of this award, would you like to take a moment to share your thoughts with our readers or express gratitude towards those who have played a significant role in your research accomplishments?

I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this award, and I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the many individuals who have shaped my journey as a researcher.

Prof. Kazunori Kataoka, a pioneer in polymer-based drug delivery systems—his visionary mentorship has profoundly shaped the direction and ambition of my research. I still vividly remember his words during a group meeting: “When you get results that you don't want at all, think differently—that's exactly your opportunity.” That mindset has stayed with me and continues to guide how I approach challenges in science.

Prof. Masaru Tanaka, an innovator in biocompatible materials—his deep insight into biointerfaces continue to expand my perspective.

Prof. Zhishen Ge, my Ph.D. advisor—his unwavering support and rigorous training laid the foundation for my scientific career.

This award reaffirms the value of pushing the boundaries in pharmaceutics and biomaterials. I hope it can serve as encouragement to young scientists to approach unsolved problems with boldness, curiosity, and persistence. Together, let us continue to redefine what’s possible in drug delivery and beyond.

We cordially invite you to attend The 1st International Electronic Conference on Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutics (ECMC-P 2025). This conference is organized by the MDPI journals Pharmaceuticals (ISSN: 1424-8247; Impact Factor: 4.3) and Pharmaceutics (ISSN: 1999-4923; Impact Factor: 4.9), and it will take place virtually from 1 to 30 November 2025.

Conference Chairs:

• Prof. Dr. Maria Emília Sousa, Laboratory of Organic and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal;
• Prof. Dr. Patrick J. Sinko, Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA;
• Dr. Alfredo Berzal-Herranz, Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, (IPBLN-CSIC), Spain.

Topics of Interest:

• Small molecules as drug candidates;
• Biomolecules, natural products, phages, and cells as therapeutic tools;
• Biological targets and biomarkers;
• Radiopharmaceutical sciences, radiochemistry, (hybrid) imaging, and nuclear medicine;
• Nanotechnology;
• Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics;
• Pharmaceutical preparations and drug delivery.

Important Dates:

• Abstract Submission Deadline: 21 September 2025;
• Acceptance Notification Deadline: 5 October 2025;
• Registration Deadline: 31 October 2025.

Guide for Authors:

To submit your abstract, please click on the following link: https://sciforum.net/user/submission/create/1358.

To register for the event, please click on the following link: https://sciforum.net/event/ECMC-P2025?subscribe&section=#registration.

For details regarding abstract submission and poster and slide submission, please refer to the following link: https://sciforum.net/event/ECMC-P2025?section=#instructions.

Awards:
The open access, peer-reviewed journals Pharmaceuticals and Pharmaceutics will present awards totaling CHF 1600 for the Best Poster, Best Slideshow, Best Flash Communication, and Best Communication, as well as an award totaling CHF 500 for the Best Invited Lecture. Additionally, one participant will be granted the opportunity to engage in a One-Day Microwave Practice/Test.

For any inquiries regarding the event, please contact ecmc-p@mdpi.com.

We look forward to seeing you at the 1st International Electronic Conference on Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutics.

We announce Dr. Cláudia Martins and Dr. Luca Casula as the winners of the Pharmaceutics 2025 Travel Award. The Pharmaceutics Travel Award was launched in 2017 and is presented each year to encourage junior scientists to present their latest research at academic conferences in the field of science and technology of pharmaceutics, helping to enhance their influence. As the winners of this award, they will receive CHF 800 each and a certificate. All winners were chosen by the journal’s award committee (Dr. Patrick Sinko, Chairman; Dr. Murali Yallapu; Prof. Donato Cosco; Prof. Dr. Montse Mitjans Arnal; Prof. Roderick Bryan Walker; Prof. Dr. Anna Carbone).

We were honored to interview Dr. Cláudia Martins and Dr. Luca Casula. The interview is summarized below:

1. Could you briefly introduce yourself and tell us about your field of research?

Dr. Cláudia Martins: I am Cláudia Martins, a Junior Postdoctoral Researcher at i3S—the Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto (Portugal). I hold a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences from the University of Porto, in collaboration with the University of Nottingham (UK) and the University of Louvain (Belgium). My research focuses on biomaterials, targeted cancer nanomedicine, brain drug delivery, and tissue engineering. Over the years, I have worked across academia and industry, secured competitive funding, and contributed extensively to science outreach.

Dr. Luca Casula: I am Dr. Luca Casula, a postdoctoral researcher in the Nanotechnology for Drug Delivery group at the University of Cagliari, Italy. My research focuses on pharmaceutics and drug delivery systems, with a particular emphasis on developing innovative drug formulations and optimizing delivery strategies to improve therapeutic effectiveness and patient outcomes. In particular, I explore the applications of nanomedicine to the following topics:

• Address challenges associated with poorly water-soluble drug formulations;
• Develop biodegradable wound dressings through electrospinning;
• Optimize aerosolisable nano- and micro-drug delivery systems.

2. In your previous collaborations with MDPI, what impressed you most?

Dr. Cláudia Martins:  What impressed me the most was the straightforward and simple application process, the transparency in receiving updates on the application status, and the responsiveness and supportiveness of the journal’s staff.

Dr. Luca Casula: Having engaged with MDPI in past research endeavors, I have been particularly impressed by the journal’s rapid and transparent peer-review process, as well as its commitment to publishing high-quality, impactful research. The accessibility of MDPI’s open access platform ensures that valuable scientific findings reach a global audience, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

3. Which research topics do you think will be of particular interest to the research community in the coming years?

Dr. Cláudia Martins:  Brain drug delivery will remain a major research focus, particularly innovative strategies to overcome the blood-brain barrier. Advancing out-of-the-box approaches to efficiently transport therapeutic agents to the brain is crucial for treating neurological disorders.

Dr. Luca Casula: In the coming years, I believe the research community will focus heavily on the following topics:

• Nanotechnology-based drug delivery, particularly in oncology, gene therapy, and targeted drug delivery;
• Biodegradable and smart polymers for sustained and controlled drug release;
• AI-driven drug formulation and predictive modeling to optimize drug design and reduce development time;
• mRNA therapeutics and novel vaccine platforms beyond COVID-19, applied to various infectious diseases and cancers.

4. As the winner of this award, would you like to take a moment to share your thoughts with our readers or express gratitude towards those who have played a significant role in your research accomplishments?

Dr. Cláudia Martins:  Special acknowledgment goes to my all-time scientific mentor, Prof. Bruno Sarmento (i3S, University of Porto, Portugal). From the very first days of my research journey, he has provided me with invaluable guidance, encouragement, and countless opportunities that have allowed me to grow both professionally and personally. His mentorship has been fundamental in helping me to establish my career goals and navigate the challenges of the scientific world.

Dr. Luca Casula:  I am incredibly honored to receive the Pharmaceutics 2025 Travel Award, and I sincerely thank the MDPI committee for this recognition. This award represents not just a personal milestone but also a testament to the hard work and collaboration that drives impactful research. I would like to express my gratitude to my mentors, colleagues, and research collaborators who have supported my journey, as well as my institution for fostering an environment of scientific curiosity and innovation. Lastly, I thank MDPI and Pharmaceutics for their dedication to advancing pharmaceutical sciences through open access research dissemination. I look forward to continuing to make contributions to this dynamic and evolving field.

World Health Day aims to draw global attention to pressing health challenges, reinforcing our commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3—ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.

This year’s theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures” highlights the importance of maternal and infant health. Current estimates show that a woman dies every two minutes from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Urgent action is needed to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths and to prioritize women’s long-term health and well-being.

To provide high-quality care before, during, and after childbirth, we must engage in critical discussions and foster collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals. Health systems must evolve to address the full spectrum of maternal and newborn health issues—from obstetric complications to mental health conditions, noncommunicable diseases, and family planning.

In recognition of World Health Day 2025, we invite you to explore a curated selection of articles, journals, and Special Issues spanning multiple disciplines. These resources offer valuable insights into the complexities of maternal and infant health and outline actionable steps toward lasting, positive change.

Together, we can build a world where every mother and child have the opportunity for a healthy, hopeful future.

Maternal Health
“Relationship Between Plasma Acid Sphingomyelinase and Alteration in Taste and Smell as Indicator of Long COVID in Pregnant Women”
by Federico Fiorani, Giulia Moretti, Laura Cerquiglini, Chiara Gizzi, Giulia Gizzi, Paola Signorelli, Samuela Cataldi, Tommaso Beccari, Elisa Delvecchio, Claudia Mazzeschi et al.
Reports 2024, 7(4), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/reports7040104
  
“Pregnant Women’s Perception of Gestational Anemia and Iron Supplements in Oman”
by Zalikha Khamis Al-Marzouqi, Nawal Said Alsereahi and Safiya Khalfan Al Maqbali
J. Oman Med. Assoc. 2024, 1(1), 10–22; https://doi.org/10.3390/joma1010003

“The Sri Lanka Mother and Newborn Growth (S-MaNGro) Cohort: Protocol of a Nationwide Prospective Study”
by Malshani Lakshika Pathirathna, Megumi Haruna, Satoshi Sasaki, Kaori Yonezawa, Yuriko Usui and Yasuhiro Hagiwara
Methods Protoc. 2024, 7(4), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/mps7040061

“Gestational Trophoblastic Disease: Complete versus Partial Hydatidiform Moles”
by Jeffrey Gonzalez, Meagan Popp, Stephanie Ocejo, Alvaro Abreu, Hisham F. Bahmad and Robert Poppiti
Diseases 2024, 12(7), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases12070159

“Evaluating Thromboprophylaxis Strategies for High-Risk Pregnancy: A Current Perspective”
by Lucia Stančiaková, Kristína Brisudová, Ingrid Škorňová, Tomáš Bolek, Matej Samoš, Kamil Biringer, Ján Staško and Juraj Sokol
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 773; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060773

“Caring for Pregnant Patients with Cancer: A Framework for Ethical and Patient-Centred Care”
by Alma Linkeviciute, Rita Canario, Fedro Alessandro Peccatori and Kris Dierickx
Cancers 2024, 16(2), 455; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16020455

“Histopathological Clues of Enhanced Inflammation in the Placental Tissue of Women with Chronic Venous Disease in Lower Limbs during Pregnancy”
by María Asunción Sánchez-Gil, Oscar Fraile-Martinez, Cielo García-Montero, María Del Val Toledo, Luis G. Guijarro, Juan A. De León-Luis, Coral Bravo, Raúl Díaz-Pedrero, Laura López-Gonzalez, Miguel A. Saez et al.
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(1), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14010087

“Challenges Related to Acquisition of Physiological Data for Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Models in Postpartum, Lactating Women and Breastfed Infants—A Contribution from the ConcePTION Project”
by Martje Van Neste, Annick Bogaerts, Nina Nauwelaerts, Julia Macente, Anne Smits, Pieter Annaert and Karel Allegaert
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(11), 2618; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15112618

“Umbilical Cord Diseases Affecting Obstetric and Perinatal Outcomes”
by Gabriele Tonni, Mario Lituania, Alessandro Cecchi, Elisa Carboni, Serena Resta, Maria Paola Bonasoni and Rodrigo Ruano
Healthcare 2023, 11(19), 2634; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11192634

“Scientists’ Warning: Remove the Barriers to Contraception Access, for Health of Women and the Planet”
by Jan Greguš and John Guillebaud
World 2023, 4(3), 589–597; https://doi.org/10.3390/world4030036

“Trauma-Informed Care and Equity in Group Pregnancy Care for Women of Refugee Background: Reflections from the Workforce”
by Fran Hearn, Laura Biggs, Stephanie J. Brown, Ann Krastev, Josef Szwarc and Elisha Riggs
Trauma Care 2023, 3(3), 161–176; https://doi.org/10.3390/traumacare3030016

“Smoking Cessation Rates among Pregnant Women and Their Relapse Rates in the Postpartum Period in Samsun”
by Bektas Murat Yalcin, Tugba Kertmen and Muge Ustaoglu
J. Respir. 2023, 3(3), 118–129; https://doi.org/10.3390/jor3030012

“Effects of COVID-19 on Kenya’s Healthcare System: Healthcare Providers’ Experiences with Maternal Health Services Utilization in Coastal Kenya”
by Stephen Okumu Ombere and Agnetta Adiedo Nyabundi
World 2023, 4(1), 140–152; https://doi.org/10.3390/world4010010

Infant and Child Health
“Clinical Insight into Congenital Hypothyroidism Among Children”
by Hüseyin Anıl Korkmaz
Children 2025, 12(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12010055

“Child and Adolescent Mental Health in a Period of Fewer COVID-19-Related Restrictions in an Urban Population in Germany”
by Anna Konopka, Amand Führer, Mascha Binder, Sophie Diexer, Thomas Frese, Michael Gekle, Matthias Girndt, Cornelia Gottschick, Jessica Hoell, Bianca Klee et al.
Psychiatry Int. 2024, 5(4), 718–737; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint5040050

“Differences in Farmers’ Market Patronage among Participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)”
by Renata Blumberg, Emily Fowler, Gabrielle Guerrero, Yeon Bai, Meena Mahadevan and Pankaj Lal
Dietetics 2024, 3(2), 179–190; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics3020015

“Maternal Depressive Symptoms in the First Year after Childbirth Predict Long-Term Developmental Risks in Sons and Daughters”
by Linda S. Pagani, Kianoush Harandian, Beatrice Necsa, Marie-Josée Harbec and George M. Tarabulsy
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 264; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030264

“Inflammatory Biomarker Profiles in Very Preterm Infants within the Context of Preeclampsia, Chorioamnionitis, and Clinically Diagnosed Postnatal Infection”
by Jordan T. Ewald, Baiba Steinbrekera, Jennifer R. Bermick, Donna A. Santillan, Tarah T. Colaizy, Mark K. Santillan and Robert D. Roghair
Pediatr. Rep. 2023, 15(3), 483–493; https://doi.org/10.3390/pediatric15030044

“A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial Evaluating a Regenerative Epithelial Suspension for Medium-Size Partial-Thickness Burns in Children: The BRACS Trial”
by Anjana Bairagi, Zephanie Tyack, Roy Kimble, Dimitrios Vagenas, Steven M. McPhail and Bronwyn Griffin
Eur. Burn J. 2023, 4(1), 121–141; https://doi.org/10.3390/ebj4010012

“The Impact of the Early COVID-19 Global Pandemic on Children Undergoing Active Cancer Treatment and Their Parents”
by Andrew Tran, Sharon H. J. Hou, Caitlin Forbes, Sara Cho, Victoria J. Forster, Mehak Stokoe, Claire E. Wakefield, Lori Wiener, Lauren C. Heathcote, Gisela Michel et al.
Curr. Oncol. 2023, 30(2), 2441–2456; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol30020186

“Feature Advancements in Section “Childhood, Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology””	“Global Neonatal Screening: Expanding Horizons in Diagnostic Technologies”
“Healthy Lifestyle for Pregnant and Postpartum Women”	“Advanced Pediatric Drug Formulation Strategies”

The “Drug Targeting and Design” Section publishes cutting-edge research focused on the rational development of therapeutic agents with enhanced precision, efficacy, and safety. This Section emphasizes innovative strategies for drug discovery, molecular design, and targeted delivery systems that address unmet clinical needs. We welcome multidisciplinary contributions spanning computational drug design, structure–activity relationships, biomolecular engineering, and advanced carrier systems for site-specific drug action.

As all of the articles published in our journal are of open access format, you have free and unlimited access to the full texts. We welcome you to read our most highly cited papers that were published in 2023, as listed below.

1. “Current Challenges and Opportunities of Photodynamic Therapy against Cancer”
by Ruben V. Huis in‘t Veld, Jeroen Heuts, Sen Ma, Luis J. Cruz, Ferry A. Ossendorp, and Martine J. Jager
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(2), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15020330
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/2/330

2. “Polymeric Micellar Systems—A Special Emphasis on “Smart” Drug Delivery”
by Irina Negut and Bogdan Bita
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(3), 976; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15030976
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/3/976

3. “Recent Studies in Photodynamic Therapy for Cancer Treatment: From Basic Research to Clinical Trials”
by Tae Eun Kim and Ji-Eun Chang
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(9), 2257; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15092257
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/9/2257

4. “PLGA Particles in Immunotherapy”
by Dennis Horvath and Michael Basler
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(2), 615; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15020615
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/2/615

5. “Enhancing the Effectiveness of Oligonucleotide Therapeutics Using Cell-Penetrating Peptide Conjugation, Chemical Modification, and Carrier-Based Delivery Strategies”
by Saeed Anwar, Farin Mir and Toshifumi Yokota
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(4), 1130; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15041130
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/4/1130

6. “Current Treatments and New, Tentative Therapies for Parkinson’s Disease”
by Teresa Pardo-Moreno, Victoria García-Morales, Sami Suleiman-Martos, Antonio Rivas-Domínguez, Himan Mohamed-Mohamed, Juan José Ramos-Rodríguez, Lucía Melguizo-Rodrígue and Anabel González-Acedo
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(3), 770; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15030770
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/3/770

7. “Lutathera® Orphans: State of the Art and Future Application of Radioligand Therapy with 177Lu-DOTATATE”
by Luca Urso, Alberto Nieri, Licia Uccelli, Angelo Castello, Paolo Artioli, Corrado Cittanti, Maria Cristina Marzola, Luigia Florimonte, Massimo Castellani, Sergio Bissoli et al.
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(4), 1110; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15041110
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/4/1110

8. “Optimizing Antiviral Dosing for HSV and CMV Treatment in Immunocompromised Patients”
by Daan W. Huntjens, Jacob A. Dijkstra, Lisanne N. Verwiel, Mirjam Slijkhuis, Paul Elbers, Matthijs R. A. Welkers, Agnes I. Veldkamp, Marianne A. Kuijvenhoven, David C. de Leeuw, Heshu Abdullah-Koolmees et al.
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(1), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15010163
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/1/163

9. “Hydroxyapatite Thin Films of Marine Origin as Sustainable Candidates for Dental Implants”
by Gabriela Dorcioman, Valentina Grumezescu, George E. Stan, Mariana Carmen Chifiriuc, Gratiela Pircalabioru Gradisteanu, Florin Miculescu, Elena Matei, Gianina Popescu-Pelin, Irina Zgura, Valentin Craciun et al.
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(4), 274; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15041294
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/4/1294

10. “Fc-Engineered Therapeutic Antibodies: Recent Advances and Future Directions”
by Dalia T. Abdeldaim and Katharina Schindowski
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(10), 2402; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15102402
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/10/2402

MDPI will be attending the 5th European Conference on Pharmaceutics held in Porto, Portugal, from 24 to 25 March 2025. The European Conferences on Pharmaceutics are held every two years (in March/April of odd-number years). They are jointly organized by the APGI (International Society of Drug Delivery Sciences and Technology), APV (International Association for Pharmaceutical Technology), and SITELF (Italian Society of Pharmaceutical Technology and Legislation and Related Disciplines).

The aim of this conference is to help bridge the gap between fundamental academic research and industrial applications, offering the opportunity to initiate fruitful exchange and cooperation between universities and industry. The conference represents a perfect opportunity for young as well as established scientists from all over the world to present their work, discuss their most recent scientific findings, network, and share their experience with colleagues. Leading experts in the field from around the world will give plenary lectures and invited talks on hot topics. They will provide overviews on the current state of the art in their respective domains and outlooks on future perspectives.

The following MDPI journals will be represented at the conference:

• Pharmaceuticals;
• Pharmaceutics;
• Antibiotics;
• Neurology International;
• Future Pharmacology;
• DDC;
• Pharmacoepidemiology;
• Viruses.

If you are planning to attend the above conference, please visit our booth #21. Our delegates look forward to meeting you in person and answering any questions that you may have. For more information about the conference, please visit the following website: https://managedreg.crowdcomms.com/5th-european-conference-on-pharmaceutics.

The “Drug Delivery and Controlled Release” Section publishes pioneering research in the broad field of drug delivery and release science, as well as their applications in human and veterinary medicine. We take a holistic approach and encourage multidisciplinarity to understand new developments in drug delivery and release. Areas of interest include the mechanistic understanding of drug delivery systems underpinned by sound biological and physicochemical principles, mathematical modeling, predictive science, drug delivery systems, and cellular interaction to meet the therapeutic needs at hand. Both theoretical and interpretative studies, as well as applied research, are welcome.

As all of the articles published in our journal are of open access format, you have free and unlimited access to the full texts. We welcome you to read our most highly cited papers published in 2023, listed below.

1. “Current Trends in Gelatin-Based Drug Delivery Systems”
by Francesca Milano, Annalia Masi, Marta Madaghiele, Alessandro Sannino, Luca Salvatore and Nunzia Gallo
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(5), 1499; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15051499
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/5/1499

2. “Recent Progress of Lipid Nanoparticles-Based Lipophilic Drug Delivery: Focus on Surface Modifications”
by Yoseph Seo, Hayeon Lim, Hyunjun Park, Jiyun Yu, Jeongyun An, Hah Young Yoo and Taek Lee
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(3), 772; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15030772
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/3/772

3. “Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complexes for Improved Drug Bioavailability and Activity: Synthetic and Analytical Aspects”
by Álvaro Sarabia-Vallejo, María del Mar Caja, Ana I. Olives, M. Antonia Martín and J. Carlos Menéndez
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(9), 2345; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15092345
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/9/2345

4. “Are Natural Compounds a Promising Alternative to Synthetic Cross-Linking Agents in the Preparation of Hydrogels?”
by Paulina Sapuła, Katarzyna Bialik-Wąs and Katarzyna Malarz
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(1), 253; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15010253
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/1/253

5. “Microneedle-Mediated Transdermal Delivery of Biopharmaceuticals”
by Hiep X. Nguyen and Chien N. Nguyen
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(1), 277; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15010277
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/1/277

6. “Controlled Drug Release from Nanoengineered Polysaccharides”
by Ilker S. Bayer
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(5), 1364; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15051364
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/5/1364

7. “Pluronic F-68 and F-127 Based Nanomedicines for Advancing Combination Cancer Therapy”
by Nisar Ul Khaliq, Juyeon Lee, Sangwoo Kim, Daekyung Sung and Hyungjun Kim
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(8), 2102; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15082102
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/8/2102

8. “Exosome-Based Drug Delivery: Translation from Bench to Clinic”
by Hee Byung Koh, Hyo Jeong Kim, Shin-Wook Kang and Tae-Hyun Yoo
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(8), 2042; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15082042
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/8/2042

9. “Lipid Nanoparticles Functionalized with Antibodies for Anticancer Drug Therapy”
by Ana Camila Marques, Paulo C. Costa, Sérgia Velho and Maria Helena Amaral
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(1), 216; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15010216
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/1/216

10. “Rapidly Dissolving Microneedles for the Delivery of Steroid-Loaded Nanoparticles Intended for the Treatment of Inflammatory Skin Diseases”
by Hala Dawud and Aiman Abu Ammar
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(2), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15020526
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/2/526

MDPI is pleased to share a significant milestone in its mission to advance scholarly research and promote the dissemination of knowledge—300+ MDPI journals are now indexed in Web of Science (WoS). This milestone highlights the global recognition, interdisciplinary impact and enhanced visibility of our journals. It also reflects our adherence to rigorous editorial standards, scientific integrity, and our mission to foster open scientific exchange in all forms, across all disciplines. 

To explore the full list of our journals indexed in WoS, please visit https://www.mdpi.com/about/journals/wos. Beyond expanding the coverage of our publications in the leading academic databases, we are dedicated to ensuring that our journals are included in as many scope-specific databases as possible. This increases the visibility of our authors’ work and extends the reach of their significant data. 

This milestone would not have been possible without the efforts and expertise of our academic editors, reviewers and authors. Their commitment and collaboration have been instrumental in creating an inclusive, accessible, and impactful publishing platform. We also extend our gratitude to the global research community for their trust as we continue to break new ground in academic publishing. This milestone is not just a celebration of MDPI’s progress but also recognition of the collective strides made by researchers worldwide. 

As we celebrate this remarkable accomplishment, MDPI remains steadfast in its commitment to open access publishing and ensuring that high-quality research reaches and inspires a global audience.