Polymeric Materials for Drug Delivery

A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360). This special issue belongs to the section "Polymer Applications".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 December 2022) | Viewed by 18538

Special Issue Editors

Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Materials and Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu, China
Interests: drug delivery system and new drug formulations; complex preparations, such as liposomes, nanoparticles, prodrug conjugates, and cyclodextrin inclusion complexes; freeze-drying technology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
Interests: drug delivery; nanoliposomes; micellar drugs
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
1. Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People\'s Hospital, Chengdu, China
2. School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
Interests: drug delivery; nanomedicine; nanoparticles; nanomaterials; nanomaterials synthesis
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Researchers have been pursuing better ways to deliver drugs to diseased tissues for a long time. There are many characteristics of a delivery system that must be considered, such as dosage forms, route, side effects, drug release, pharmacokinetics, and patient compliance. Using specifically designed polymeric materials, we can better control the variables presented in a drug delivery system so that the drug can be more effective and safer. In the field of polymer science, complex materials are being designed and developed to better deliver therapeutic agents to a specific disease site.

The Special Issue is open to valuable contributions in the field of polymeric materials-based drug delivery systems and pharmaceutical technology. The Special Issue will cover all innovative aspects of all polymeric delivery systems, including oral, pulmonary, nasal, parental and transdermal, and modes of entry such as controlled release systems, nanomedicines, liposomes, polymeric micelles, macromolecular conjugates, hydrogels, micro- and nanocapsules, protein/peptide delivery, gene delivery, siRNA delivery, and antibody targeting. Topics related to short-term and long-term biocompatibility and preclinical data of polymer-based drug delivery systems are also welcomed.

Dr. Neng Qiu
Dr. Lulu Cai
Dr. Qixiong Zhang
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • drug delivery
  • nanomedicine
  • targeted drug release
  • controlled release
  • polymer vesicles
  • polymer/drug composites
  • polymeric micelles
  • polymer-drug conjugates
  • hydrogel
  • gene/siRNA delivery
  • protein/peptide delivery

Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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20 pages, 2888 KiB  
Article
Newfangled Topical Film-Forming Solution for Facilitated Antifungal Therapy: Design, Development, Characterization, and In Vitro Evaluation
by Bhakti Dhimmar, Rahul Pokale, Mohamed Rahamathulla, Umme Hani, Mohammad Y. Alshahrani, Sultan Alshehri, Faiyaz Shakeel, Prawez Alam, Riyaz Ali M. Osmani and Amit B. Patil
Polymers 2023, 15(4), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15041003 - 17 Feb 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1970
Abstract
Luliconazole is a broad-spectrum topical antifungal agent that acts by altering the synthesis of fungi cell membranes. Literature suggests that the recurrence of fungal infection can be avoided by altering the pH of the site of infection. Studies have also suggested that fungi [...] Read more.
Luliconazole is a broad-spectrum topical antifungal agent that acts by altering the synthesis of fungi cell membranes. Literature suggests that the recurrence of fungal infection can be avoided by altering the pH of the site of infection. Studies have also suggested that fungi thrive by altering skin pH to be slightly acidic, i.e., pH 3–5. The current study is aimed to design, develop, characterize, and evaluate an alkaline pH-based antifungal spray solution for antifungal effects. Luliconazole was used as an antifungal agent and an alkaline spray was formulated for topical application by using Eudragit RS 100, propylene glycol (PG), water, sodium bicarbonate, and ethanol via solubilization method. Herein, sodium bicarbonate was used as an alkalizing agent. Based on DSC, FTIR, PXRD, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and rheological analysis outcomes, the drug (luliconazole) and polymer were found to be compatible. F-14 formulation containing 22% Eudragit RS 100 (ERS), 1.5% PG, and 0.25% sodium bicarbonate was optimized by adopting the quality by design approach by using design of experiment software. The viscosity, pH, drying time, volume of solution post spraying, and spray angle were, 14.99 ± 0.21 cp, 8 pH, 60 s, 0.25 mL ± 0.05 mL, and 80 ± 2, respectively. In vitro drug diffusion studies and in vitro antifungal trials against Candida albicans revealed 98.0 ± 0.2% drug diffusion with a zone of inhibition of 9 ± 0.12 mm. The findings of the optimized luliconazole topical film-forming solution were satisfactory, it was compatible with human skin, and depicted sustained drug release that suggests promising applicability in facilitated topical antifungal treatments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymeric Materials for Drug Delivery)
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16 pages, 2700 KiB  
Article
Irinotecan-Loaded Polymeric Micelles as a Promising Alternative to Enhance Antitumor Efficacy in Colorectal Cancer Therapy
by Fernanda Lapa Campos, Janaina de Alcântara Lemos, Caroline Mari Ramos Oda, Juliana de Oliveira Silva, Renata Salgado Fernandes, Sued Eustaquio Mendes Miranda, Carolina Henriques Cavalcante, Geovanni Dantas Cassali, Danyelle M. Townsend, Elaine Amaral Leite and Andre Luis Branco de Barros
Polymers 2022, 14(22), 4905; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14224905 - 14 Nov 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1712
Abstract
Colorectal cancer has been considered a worldwide public health problem since current treatments are often ineffective. Irinotecan is a frontline chemotherapeutic agent that has dose-limiting side effects that compromise its therapeutic potential. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a novel, targeted drug delivery [...] Read more.
Colorectal cancer has been considered a worldwide public health problem since current treatments are often ineffective. Irinotecan is a frontline chemotherapeutic agent that has dose-limiting side effects that compromise its therapeutic potential. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a novel, targeted drug delivery system with high therapeutic efficacy and an improved safety profile. Here, micellar formulations composed of 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-[methoxy(polyethyleneglycol)-2000] (DSPE-mPEG2k) containing irinotecan were proposed as a strategy for colorectal cancer therapy. Firstly, the irinotecan-loaded micelles were prepared using the solvent evaporation method. Then, micelles were characterized in terms of size, polydispersity, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and release kinetics. Cytotoxicity and in vivo antitumor activity were evaluated. The micelles showed size around 13 nm, zeta potential near neutral (−0.5 mV), and encapsulation efficiency around 68.5% (irinotecan 3 mg/mL) with a sustained drug release within the first 8 h. The micelles were evaluated in a CT26 tumor animal model showing inhibition of tumor growth (89%) higher than free drug (68.7%). Body weight variation, hemolytic activity, hematological, and biochemical data showed that, at the dose of 7.5 mg/kg, the irinotecan-loaded micelles have low toxicity. In summary, our findings provide evidence that DSPE-mPEG2k micelles could be considered potential carriers for future irinotecan delivery and their possible therapeutic application against colorectal cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymeric Materials for Drug Delivery)
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20 pages, 22568 KiB  
Article
Preliminary Study of κ-Carrageenan Based Membranes for Anti-Inflammatory Drug Delivery
by Dorinel Okolišan, Gabriela Vlase, Titus Vlase and Claudiu Avram
Polymers 2022, 14(20), 4275; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14204275 - 12 Oct 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1583
Abstract
This study proposes a simple and effective method to obtain ultra-thin membranes based on κ-carrageenan. Two types of membranes were obtained, one based on κ-carrageenan and the second type based on κ-carrageenan, hydroxyethyl cellulose and the plasticizer (glycerol). Three non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Dexketoprofen [...] Read more.
This study proposes a simple and effective method to obtain ultra-thin membranes based on κ-carrageenan. Two types of membranes were obtained, one based on κ-carrageenan and the second type based on κ-carrageenan, hydroxyethyl cellulose and the plasticizer (glycerol). Three non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Dexketoprofen trometamol, Meloxicam, Diclofenac sodium) and a glucocorticoid (Dexamethasone) were introduced, looking for the best option for incorporation. The obtained membranes were characterized by FTIR, TG/DTG and UV-VIS methods and the data collected following these methods indicated success in terms of the incorporation of the active substance, as well as the high thermal stability in the temperature range 37–100 °C of both the matrices of membrane types, as well as the membranes with the drug incorporated. All the studies carried out led to the conclusion that within all the membranes the anti-inflammatory substances were intact and, thus we can say that these membranes can be used for transdermal administration of the studied anti-inflammatory substances. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymeric Materials for Drug Delivery)
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24 pages, 5897 KiB  
Article
A QbD Approach to Design and to Optimize the Self-Emulsifying Resveratrol–Phospholipid Complex to Enhance Drug Bioavailability through Lymphatic Transport
by Syed Abul Layes Gausuzzaman, Mithun Saha, Shahid Jaman Dip, Shaiful Alam, Arup Kumar, Harinarayan Das, Shazid Md. Sharker, Md Abdur Rashid, Mohsin Kazi and Hasan Mahmud Reza
Polymers 2022, 14(15), 3220; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14153220 - 08 Aug 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2033
Abstract
Objectives: Despite having profound therapeutic value, the clinical application of resveratrol is restrained due to its <1% bioavailability, arising from the extensive fast-pass effect along with enterohepatic recirculation. This study aimed to develop a self-emulsifying formulation capable of increasing the bioavailability of resveratrol [...] Read more.
Objectives: Despite having profound therapeutic value, the clinical application of resveratrol is restrained due to its <1% bioavailability, arising from the extensive fast-pass effect along with enterohepatic recirculation. This study aimed to develop a self-emulsifying formulation capable of increasing the bioavailability of resveratrol via lymphatic transport. Methods: The resveratrol–phospholipid complex (RPC) was formed by the solvent evaporation method and characterized by FTIR, DSC, and XRD analyses. The RPC-loaded self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) was designed, developed, and optimized using the QbD approach with an emphasis on resveratrol transport through the intestinal lymphatic pathway. The in vivo pharmacokinetic study was investigated in male Wister Albino rats. Results: The FTIR, DSC, and XRD analyses confirmed the RPC formation. The obtained design space provided robustness of prediction within the 95% prediction interval to meet the CQA specifications. An optimal formulation (desirability value of 7.24) provided Grade-A self-emulsion and exhibited a 48-fold bioavailability enhancement compared to the pure resveratrol. The cycloheximide-induced chylomicron flow blocking approach demonstrated that 91.14% of the systemically available resveratrol was transported through the intestinal lymphatic route. Conclusions: This study suggests that an optimal self-emulsifying formulation can significantly increase the bioavailability of resveratrol through lymphatic transport to achieve the desired pharmacological effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymeric Materials for Drug Delivery)
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Review

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15 pages, 3036 KiB  
Review
A Review of the Release Profiles and Efficacies of Chemotherapy Drug-Loaded Electrospun Membranes
by Zhenyu Lin, Hao Chen, Jiawei Xu, Jie Wang, Huijing Wang, Shifen Huang and Shanshan Xu
Polymers 2023, 15(2), 251; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15020251 - 04 Jan 2023
Viewed by 1703
Abstract
Electrospun fibrous membranes loaded with chemotherapy drugs have been broadly studied, many of which have had promising data demonstrating therapeutic effects on cancer cell inhibition, tumor size reduction, the life extension of tumor-bearing animals, and more. Nevertheless, their drug release profiles are difficult [...] Read more.
Electrospun fibrous membranes loaded with chemotherapy drugs have been broadly studied, many of which have had promising data demonstrating therapeutic effects on cancer cell inhibition, tumor size reduction, the life extension of tumor-bearing animals, and more. Nevertheless, their drug release profiles are difficult to predict since their degradation pattern varies with crystalline polymers. In addition, there is room for improving their release performances, optimizing the release patterns, and achieving better therapeutic outcomes. In this review, the key factors affecting electrospun membrane drug release profiles have been systematically reviewed. Case studies of the release profiles of typical chemotherapy drugs are carried out to determine the preferred polymer choices and techniques to achieve the expected prolonged or enhanced release profiles. The therapeutic effects of these electrospun, chemo-drug-loaded membranes are also discussed. This review aims to assist in the design of future drug-loaded electrospun materials to achieve preferred release profiles with enhanced therapeutic efficacies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymeric Materials for Drug Delivery)
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14 pages, 3034 KiB  
Review
Promising Role of Silk-Based Biomaterials for Ocular-Based Drug Delivery and Tissue Engineering
by Shahid Ud Din Wani, Mubashir Hussain Masoodi, Surya Prakash Gautam, H. G. Shivakumar, Sultan Alshehri, Mohammed M. Ghoneim, Prawez Alam and Faiyaz Shakeel
Polymers 2022, 14(24), 5475; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14245475 - 14 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1635
Abstract
Silk is a wonderful biopolymer that has a long history of medical applications. Surgical cords and medically authorised human analogues made of silk have a long history of use in management. We describe the use of silk in the treatment of eye diseases [...] Read more.
Silk is a wonderful biopolymer that has a long history of medical applications. Surgical cords and medically authorised human analogues made of silk have a long history of use in management. We describe the use of silk in the treatment of eye diseases in this review by looking at the usage of silk fibroin for eye-related drug delivery applications and medication transfer to the eyes. During this ancient art endeavour, a reduced engineering project that employed silk as a platform for medicine delivery or a cell-filled matrix helped reignite interest. With considerable attention, this study explores the present usage of silk in ocular-based drug delivery. This paper also examines emerging developments with the use of silk as a biopolymer for the treatment of eye ailments. As treatment options for glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, retinitis pigmentosa, and other retinal diseases and degenerations are developed, the trans-scleral route of drug delivery holds great promise for the selective, sustained-release delivery of these novel therapeutic compounds. We should expect a swarm of silk-inspired materials to enter clinical testing and use on the surface as the secrets of silk are unveiled. This article finishes with a discussion on potential silk power, which adds to better ideas and enhanced ocular medicine delivery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymeric Materials for Drug Delivery)
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26 pages, 5108 KiB  
Review
Molecular Targets for Antibody-Based Anti-Biofilm Therapy in Infective Endocarditis
by Jiahe Han and Alessandro Poma
Polymers 2022, 14(15), 3198; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14153198 - 05 Aug 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2172
Abstract
Infective endocarditis (IE) is a heart disease caused by the infection of heart valves, majorly caused by Staphilococcus aureus. IE is initiated by bacteria entering the blood circulation in favouring conditions (e.g., during invasive procedures). So far, the conventional antimicrobial strategies based [...] Read more.
Infective endocarditis (IE) is a heart disease caused by the infection of heart valves, majorly caused by Staphilococcus aureus. IE is initiated by bacteria entering the blood circulation in favouring conditions (e.g., during invasive procedures). So far, the conventional antimicrobial strategies based on the usage of antibiotics remain the major intervention for treating IE. Nevertheless, the therapeutic efficacy of antibiotics in IE is limited not only by the bacterial drug resistance, but also by the formation of biofilms, which resist the penetration of antibiotics into bacterial cells. To overcome these drawbacks, the development of anti-biofilm treatments that can expose bacteria and make them more susceptible to the action of antibiotics, therefore resulting in reduced antimicrobial resistance, is urgently required. A series of anti-biofilm strategies have been developed, and this review will focus in particular on the development of anti-biofilm antibodies. Based on the results previously reported in the literature, several potential anti-biofilm targets are discussed, such as bacterial adhesins, biofilm matrix and bacterial toxins, covering their antigenic properties (with the identification of potential promising epitopes), functional mechanisms, as well as the antibodies already developed against these targets and, where feasible, their clinical translation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymeric Materials for Drug Delivery)
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33 pages, 4810 KiB  
Review
PH Responsive Polyurethane for the Advancement of Biomedical and Drug Delivery
by Rachel Yie Hang Tan, Choy Sin Lee, Mallikarjuna Rao Pichika, Sit Foon Cheng and Ki Yan Lam
Polymers 2022, 14(9), 1672; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14091672 - 20 Apr 2022
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 4710
Abstract
Due to the specific physiological pH throughout the human body, pH-responsive polymers have been considered for aiding drug delivery systems. Depending on the surrounding pH conditions, the polymers can undergo swelling or contraction behaviors, and a degradation mechanism can release incorporated substances. Additionally, [...] Read more.
Due to the specific physiological pH throughout the human body, pH-responsive polymers have been considered for aiding drug delivery systems. Depending on the surrounding pH conditions, the polymers can undergo swelling or contraction behaviors, and a degradation mechanism can release incorporated substances. Additionally, polyurethane, a highly versatile polymer, has been reported for its biocompatibility properties, in which it demonstrates good biological response and sustainability in biomedical applications. In this review, we focus on summarizing the applications of pH-responsive polyurethane in the biomedical and drug delivery fields in recent years. In recent studies, there have been great developments in pH-responsive polyurethanes used as controlled drug delivery systems for oral administration, intravaginal administration, and targeted drug delivery systems for chemotherapy treatment. Other applications such as surface biomaterials, sensors, and optical imaging probes are also discussed in this review. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymeric Materials for Drug Delivery)
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