Applications of Polymers and Polymer Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine

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Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

The focus of modern pharmaceutical science is aimed at the possibility for control, extension, sustaining, and targeting of the bioactive compounds. Moreover, the efforts are intended to overcome the limitations of the drugs itself, such as decreasing its toxicity and side effects, its instabilities, and unwanted changes. In the field of drug delivery science, polymers have seen significant progress. They provide the possibility for development of delivery systems of higher hierarchical order owing to their unique properties on a molecular and supramolecular level. Their possibility for improvement of the pharmacokinetic properties of drugs is practically unrestricted. This topics is an attempt to summarize recent progress in the knowledge of drug delivery systems based on hydrogels, micro- and nanosized gels, biodegradable polymers, stimuli-responsive systems, polymer and polymer-hybrd nanoparticles, etc., in the development of alternative formulations and administration routes. The evolution of polymer based delivery systems of large molecules as well as biomolecules also will be addressed.

Prof. Dr. Stanislav Rangelov
Dr. Emi Haladjova
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Biomedicines biomedicines	3.9	5.2	2013	14.6 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Journal of Nanotheranostics jnt	-	-	2020	18.2 Days	CHF 1000	Submit
Pharmaceutics pharmaceutics	4.9	7.9	2009	15.5 Days	CHF 2900	Submit
Polymers polymers	4.7	8.0	2009	14.5 Days	CHF 2700	Submit
Nanomaterials nanomaterials	4.4	8.5	2010	14.1 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Pharmaceuticals pharmaceuticals	4.3	6.1	2004	13.9 Days	CHF 2900	Submit
Biophysica biophysica	-	1.6	2021	16.1 Days	CHF 1000	Submit

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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All Biomedicines JNT Pharmaceutics Polymers Nanomaterials Pharmaceuticals Biophysica

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28 pages, 5103 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Polymer Micelles as Nanocarriers of Bioactive Peptides

by Petar D. Petrov, Slavena Davidova and Galina Satchanska

Polymers 2025, 17(9), 1174; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17091174 - 25 Apr 2025

Viewed by 59

Abstract

Bioactive peptides (BPs) have demonstrated diverse inhibitory effects against parasites, viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens, and therefore, they have been extensively used for developing various therapeutics. However, several challenges for the clinical use of BPs related to their stability, bioavailability, and cytotoxicity [...] Read more.

Bioactive peptides (BPs) have demonstrated diverse inhibitory effects against parasites, viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens, and therefore, they have been extensively used for developing various therapeutics. However, several challenges for the clinical use of BPs related to their stability, bioavailability, and cytotoxicity remain. The encapsulation of BPs in polymer micelles (PMs) has emerged as an effective strategy that can improve the pharmacological profiles, safety, and efficacy of treatments. This review describes the recent advances of micellar carriers of peptides with antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-diabetic activities. The mode of action of BPs and the unique characteristics of PMs are described, and a critical evaluation of their advantages and disadvantages is made. The upcoming challenges and future perspectives of micellar systems carrying BPs are discussed as well. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Applications of Polymers and Polymer Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine)

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18 pages, 5032 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Electrospun Coaxial Polycaprolactone/Polyvinylpyrrolidone Fibers Containing Cisplatin: A Potential Local Chemotherapy Delivery System for Cervical Cancer Treatment

by Mariana Sarai Silva-López, Vladimir Alonso Escobar-Barrios and Luz Eugenia Alcántara-Quintana

Polymers 2025, 17(5), 637; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17050637 - 27 Feb 2025

Viewed by 528

Abstract

Cisplatin, a frequently used chemotherapeutic for the treatment of cervical cancer, causes adverse effects that limit its use. Treatment with local therapy that limits toxicity remains a challenge. The aim of this study was to develop a local intravaginal cisplatin delivery system of [...] Read more.

Cisplatin, a frequently used chemotherapeutic for the treatment of cervical cancer, causes adverse effects that limit its use. Treatment with local therapy that limits toxicity remains a challenge. The aim of this study was to develop a local intravaginal cisplatin delivery system of polycaprolactone/polyvinylpyrrolidone sheath/core fibers by coaxial electrospinning. Physicochemical properties, degradation rate, mucoadhesion, release profile, and in vitro biosafety assays were characterized. Microscopy images confirmed the coaxial nature of the fibers and showed continuous morphology and diameters of 3–9 µm. The combination of polymers improved their mechanical properties. The contact angle < 85° indicated a hydrophilic surface, which would allow its dissolution in the vaginal environment. The release profile showed a rapid initial release followed by a slow and sustained release over eight days. The degradation test showed ~50% dissolution of the fibers on day 10. The adhesion of the fibrous device to the vaginal wall lasted for more than 15 days, which was sufficient time to allow the release of cisplatin. The biosafety tests showed great cytocompatibility and no hemolysis. The characteristics of the developed system open the possibility of its application as a localized therapy against cervical cancer, reducing adverse effects and improving the quality of life of patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Applications of Polymers and Polymer Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine)

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21 pages, 5599 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Polypiperazine-Based Micelles of Mixed Composition for Gene Delivery

by Rumena Stancheva, Emi Haladjova, Maria Petrova, Iva Ugrinova, Ivaylo Dimitrov and Stanislav Rangelov

Polymers 2024, 16(21), 3100; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16213100 - 4 Nov 2024

Viewed by 1178

Abstract

We introduce a novel concept in nucleic acid delivery based on the use of mixed polymeric micelles (MPMs) as platforms for the preparation of micelleplexes with DNA. MPMs were prepared by the co-assembly of a cationic copolymer, poly(1-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)-propenone)-b-poly(d,l-lactide), and [...] Read more.

We introduce a novel concept in nucleic acid delivery based on the use of mixed polymeric micelles (MPMs) as platforms for the preparation of micelleplexes with DNA. MPMs were prepared by the co-assembly of a cationic copolymer, poly(1-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)-propenone)-b-poly(d,l-lactide), and nonionic poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(propylene oxide)-b-poly(ethylene oxide) block copolymers. We hypothesize that by introducing nonionic entities incorporated into the mixed co-assembled structures, the mode and strength of DNA binding and DNA accessibility and release could be modulated. The systems were characterized in terms of size, surface potential, buffering capacity, and binding ability to investigate the influence of composition, in particular, the poly(ethylene oxide) chain length on the properties and structure of the MPMs. Endo–lysosomal conditions were simulated to follow the changes in fundamental parameters and behavior of the micelleplexes. The results were interpreted as reflecting the specific structure and composition of the corona and localization of DNA in the corona, predetermined by the poly(ethylene oxide) chain length. A favorable effect of the introduction of the nonionic block copolymer component in the MPMs and micelleplexes thereof was the enhancement of biocompatibility. The slight reduction of the transfection efficiency of the MPM-based micelleplexes compared to that of the single-component polymer micelles was attributed to the premature release of DNA from the MPM-based micelleplexes in the endo–lysosomal compartments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Applications of Polymers and Polymer Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine)

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22 pages, 3650 KiB  

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

An Innovative Bio-Vehicle for Resveratrol and Tocopherol Based on Quinoa 11S Globulin—Nanocomplex Design and Characterization

by Alejandra J. Rubinstein, Guadalupe Garcia Liñares, Valeria Boeris and Oscar E. Pérez

Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(9), 1118; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16091118 - 24 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1556

Abstract

Nanocomplexes, which possess immense potential to function as nanovehicles, can link diverse ligand compounds. The objective of the present study was to design and characterize resveratrol (RSV)- and tocopherol (TOC)-loaded 11S quinoa seed protein nanocomplexes. Firstly, molecular docking was performed to describe the [...] Read more.

Nanocomplexes, which possess immense potential to function as nanovehicles, can link diverse ligand compounds. The objective of the present study was to design and characterize resveratrol (RSV)- and tocopherol (TOC)-loaded 11S quinoa seed protein nanocomplexes. Firstly, molecular docking was performed to describe the probable binding sites between protein and ligands, and binding energies of −5.6 and −6.2 kcal/mol were found for RSV and TOC, respectively. Isothermal titration calorimetry allowed us to obtain the thermodynamic parameters that described the molecular interactions between RSV or TOC with the protein, finding the complexation process to be exothermic and spontaneous. 11S globulin intrinsic fluorescence spectra showed quenching effects exerted by RSV and TOC, demonstrating protein–bioactive compound interactions. The application of Stern–Volmer, Scatchard, and Förster resonance energy transfer models confirmed static quenching and allowed us to obtain parameters that described the 11S-RSV and 11S-TOC complexation processes. RSV has a higher tendency to bind 11S globulin according to ITC and fluorescence analysis. Secondly, the protein aggregation induced by bioactive compound interactions was confirmed by dynamic light scattering and atomic force microscopy, with diameters <150 nm detected by both techniques. Finally, it was found that the antioxidant capacity of a single 11S globulin did not decrease; meanwhile, it was additive for 11S-RSV. These nanocomplexes could constitute a real platform for the design of nutraceutical products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Applications of Polymers and Polymer Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine)

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14 pages, 1601 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Effective Mosquito Repellents: Myrcene- and Cymene-Loaded Nanohydrogels against Aedes aegypti

by Jonatas Lobato Duarte, Leonardo Delello Di Filippo, Tais de Cássia Ribeiro, Ana Carolina de Jesus Silva, Lorane Izabel da Silva Hage-Melim, Stéphane Duchon, David Carrasco, Mara Cristina Pinto, Vincent Corbel and Marlus Chorilli

Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(8), 1096; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16081096 - 21 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1778

Abstract

Aedes mosquito-borne diseases remain a significant global health threat, necessitating effective control strategies. This study introduces monoterpenes-based nanohydrogels for potential use as repellents against Aedes aegypti, the primary dengue vector worldwide. We formulated hydrogels using cymene- and myrcene-based nanoemulsions with different polymers: [...] Read more.

Aedes mosquito-borne diseases remain a significant global health threat, necessitating effective control strategies. This study introduces monoterpenes-based nanohydrogels for potential use as repellents against Aedes aegypti, the primary dengue vector worldwide. We formulated hydrogels using cymene- and myrcene-based nanoemulsions with different polymers: chitosan, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and carbopol^®. Our evaluations of rheological, texture, and bioadhesive properties identified CMC hydrogel as the most promising gelling agent for topical application, exhibiting sustained monoterpene release over 12 h with low skin permeation and high retention in the stratum corneum. Myrcene-loaded CMC hydrogel achieved a 57% feeding deterrence compared to 47% with cymene hydrogel in the mosquito membrane-feeding model. Molecular docking studies revealed interactions between myrcene and an essential amino acid (Ile116) in the Ae. aegypti odorant-binding protein 22 (AeOBP22), corroborating its higher repellent efficacy. These findings suggest that myrcene-loaded CMC hydrogels offer a promising, minimally invasive strategy for personal protection against Ae. aegypti and warrant further investigation to optimize monoterpene concentrations for vector control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Applications of Polymers and Polymer Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine)

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22 pages, 4036 KiB  

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Development and Evaluation of Different Electrospun Cysteamine-Loaded Nanofibrous Webs: A Promising Option for Treating a Rare Lysosomal Storage Disorder

by Safaa Omer, Nándor Nagy, Balázs Pinke, László Mészáros, Adrienn Kazsoki and Romána Zelkó

Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(8), 1052; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16081052 - 9 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1682

Abstract

Nanofibers can be utilized to overcome the challenges faced by conventional ophthalmic formulations. This study aimed to develop and characterize cysteamine (Cys)-loaded nanofiber-based ophthalmic inserts (OIs) as a potential candidate for the treatment of ophthalmic cystinosis using water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/poloxamer 407 (PO-407) [...] Read more.

Nanofibers can be utilized to overcome the challenges faced by conventional ophthalmic formulations. This study aimed to develop and characterize cysteamine (Cys)-loaded nanofiber-based ophthalmic inserts (OIs) as a potential candidate for the treatment of ophthalmic cystinosis using water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/poloxamer 407 (PO-407) and water-insoluble tetraethoxysilane (TEOS)/PVA nanofibers. Plain and Cys-loaded fibers in different proportions were prepared by the electrospinning method and studied for their morphological, physicochemical, release study, cytocompatibility effects, and stability study. The fiber formation was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, while Fourier transform infrared spectra showed the most critical peaks for the Cys and the excipients. The release of the Cys was fast from the two polymeric matrices (≤20 min). The release from TEOS/PVA nanofibers is characterized by Case II transport (0.75 < β < 1), while the release from PVA/PO-407 nanofibers follows Fickian diffusion (β < 0.75). The cytocompatibility of compositions was confirmed by hen eggs tested on the chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM) of chick embryos. All formulations remained stable under stress conditions (40 ± 2 °C, 75 ± 5% relative humidity) regarding morphology and physicochemical characteristics. The developed nanofibrous mats could be an excellent alternative to available Cys drops, with better stability and convenience of self-administration as OIs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Applications of Polymers and Polymer Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine)

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22 pages, 5470 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Dually Modified Cellulose as a Non-Viral Vector for the Delivery and Uptake of HDAC3 siRNA

by Juliana Hülsmann, Henry Lindemann, Jamila Wegener, Marie Kühne, Maren Godmann, Andreas Koschella, Sina M. Coldewey, Thomas Heinze and Thorsten Heinzel

Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(12), 2659; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15122659 - 23 Nov 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1621

Abstract

RNA interference can be applied to different target genes for treating a variety of diseases, but an appropriate delivery system is necessary to ensure the transport of intact siRNAs to the site of action. In this study, cellulose was dually modified to create [...] Read more.

RNA interference can be applied to different target genes for treating a variety of diseases, but an appropriate delivery system is necessary to ensure the transport of intact siRNAs to the site of action. In this study, cellulose was dually modified to create a non-viral vector for HDAC3 short interfering RNA (siRNA) transfer into cells. A guanidinium group introduced positive charges into the cellulose to allow complexation of negatively charged genetic material. Furthermore, a biotin group fixed by a polyethylene glycol (PEG) spacer was attached to the polymer to allow, if required, the binding of targeting ligands. The resulting polyplexes with HDAC3 siRNA had a size below 200 nm and a positive zeta potential of up to 15 mV. For N/P ratio 2 and higher, the polymer could efficiently complex siRNA. Nanoparticles, based on this dually modified derivative, revealed a low cytotoxicity. Only minor effects on the endothelial barrier integrity and a transfection efficiency in HEK293 cells higher than Lipofectamine 2000^TM were found. The uptake and release of the polyplexes were confirmed by immunofluorescence imaging. This study indicates that the modified biopolymer is an auspicious biocompatible non-viral vector with biotin as a promising moiety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Applications of Polymers and Polymer Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine)

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38 pages, 2567 KiB  

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Advances in Pancreatic Cancer Treatment by Nano-Based Drug Delivery Systems

by Cláudia Viegas, Ana B. Patrício, João Prata, Leonor Fonseca, Ana S. Macedo, Sofia O. D. Duarte and Pedro Fonte

Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(9), 2363; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15092363 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4370

Abstract

Pancreatic cancer represents one of the most lethal cancer types worldwide, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 5%. Due to the inability to diagnose it promptly and the lack of efficacy of existing treatments, research and development of innovative therapies and [...] Read more.

Pancreatic cancer represents one of the most lethal cancer types worldwide, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 5%. Due to the inability to diagnose it promptly and the lack of efficacy of existing treatments, research and development of innovative therapies and new diagnostics are crucial to increase the survival rate and decrease mortality. Nanomedicine has been gaining importance as an innovative approach for drug delivery and diagnosis, opening new horizons through the implementation of smart nanocarrier systems, which can deliver drugs to the specific tissue or organ at an optimal concentration, enhancing treatment efficacy and reducing systemic toxicity. Varied materials such as lipids, polymers, and inorganic materials have been used to obtain nanoparticles and develop innovative drug delivery systems for pancreatic cancer treatment. In this review, it is discussed the main scientific advances in pancreatic cancer treatment by nano-based drug delivery systems. The advantages and disadvantages of such delivery systems in pancreatic cancer treatment are also addressed. More importantly, the different types of nanocarriers and therapeutic strategies developed so far are scrutinized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Applications of Polymers and Polymer Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine)

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19 pages, 3600 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Polymeric Theragnostic Nanoplatforms for Bone Tissue Engineering

by Kaushita Banerjee and Harishkumar Madhyastha

J. Nanotheranostics 2023, 4(3), 280-298; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt4030013 - 20 Jul 2023

Viewed by 2415

Abstract

Nanomaterial-based tissue engineering strategies are precisely designed and tweaked to contest specific patient needs and their end applications. Though theragnostic is a radical term very eminent in cancer prognosis, of late, theragnostic approaches have been explored in the fields of tissue remodulation and [...] Read more.

Nanomaterial-based tissue engineering strategies are precisely designed and tweaked to contest specific patient needs and their end applications. Though theragnostic is a radical term very eminent in cancer prognosis, of late, theragnostic approaches have been explored in the fields of tissue remodulation and reparation. The engineering of theragnostic nanomaterials has opened up avenues for disease diagnosis, imaging, and therapeutic treatments. The instantaneous monitoring of therapeutic strategy is expected to co-deliver imaging and pharmaceutical agents at the same time, and nanoscale carrier moieties are convenient and efficient platforms in theragnostic applications, especially in soft and hard tissue regeneration. Furthermore, imaging modalities have extensively contributed to the signal-to-noise ratio. Simultaneously, there is an accumulation of high concentrations of therapeutic mediators at the defect site. Given the confines of contemporary bone diagnostic systems, the clinical rationale demands nano/biomaterials that can localize to bone-diseased sites to enhance the precision and prognostic value for osteoporosis, non-healing fractures, and/or infections, etc. Furthermore, bone theragnostics may have an even greater clinical impact and multimodal imaging procedures can overcome the restrictions of individual modalities. The present review introduces representative theragnostic polymeric nanomaterials and their advantages and disadvantages in practical use as well as their unique properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Applications of Polymers and Polymer Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine)

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