About this Research Topic
Therapeutic delivery has been the hottest topic for several decades due to its widespread clinical applications. However, the selection of a suitable carrier to deliver the desired quantity of therapeutic agents to the target tissue site is a great challenge for both researchers and clinicians. A major obstacle is the poor capability of these systems to cross the physiological barriers such as blood-brain barrier (BBB) and blood tissue barrier (BTB) in humans. A delivery system that uses biomaterials as a therapeutic carrier is a promising way to treat various diseases. This system has several key features, including non-toxicity, biodegradability, biocompatibility, and the ability to tune its size and shape for better tissue penetration. It can also carry a wide range of therapeutic agents and release them in a controlled manner through surface functionalization of nanomaterials. Currently, the delivery systems comprising mainly polymers, metals, ceramics, and composites/nanocomposites have been developed for different biomedical applications.
Over a century ago, Paul Ehrlich came up with the idea of a "magic bullet." This concept involves a therapeutic agent that can destroy diseased cells without harming healthy ones. As effective and specific therapeutic agents have been developed, there is now a greater need for smart delivery systems that can target specific tissues at the right time and in the required concentration, while minimizing side effects. Such systems could improve the efficacy of therapeutic molecules and enhance patient compliance.
This Research Topic aims to showcase recent progress at the interface of the biomedical sciences and materials engineering. The specific sub-topics include, but are not limited to:
• Preparation and characterization of targeted delivery systems for controlled release of therapeutics agents and vaccines.
• In-vitro analysis, in-vivo imaging/biodistribution of therapeutic agents and vaccines delivered via targeted delivery systems.
• Biocompatibility and degradation dynamics of materials used in targeted drug delivery systems.
Over a century ago, Paul Ehrlich came up with the idea of a "magic bullet." This concept involves a therapeutic agent that can destroy diseased cells without harming healthy ones. As effective and specific therapeutic agents have been developed, there is now a greater need for smart delivery systems that can target specific tissues at the right time and in the required concentration, while minimizing side effects. Such systems could improve the efficacy of therapeutic molecules and enhance patient compliance.
This Research Topic aims to showcase recent progress at the interface of the biomedical sciences and materials engineering. The specific sub-topics include, but are not limited to:
• Preparation and characterization of targeted delivery systems for controlled release of therapeutics agents and vaccines.
• In-vitro analysis, in-vivo imaging/biodistribution of therapeutic agents and vaccines delivered via targeted delivery systems.
• Biocompatibility and degradation dynamics of materials used in targeted drug delivery systems.
Keywords: biomaterials, drug delivery, immune therapy, nanomedicine, polymers
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