Dendrimer-Based Drug Delivery Systems in Biomedical Applications
Summary
Dendrimers are highly branched, monodisperse macromolecules characterised by a tree-like architecture that offers precise control over size, surface functionality and internal cavities. These features make dendrimers versatile carriers capable of encapsulating hydrophobic or hydrophilic drugs, complexing nucleic acids and presenting targeting ligands on their periphery. In biomedical applications, dendrimer-based delivery systems have been engineered to improve solubility and bioavailability of conventional therapeutics, to overcome physiological barriers such as the blood-brain barrier and tumour microenvironment, and to combine therapeutic and diagnostic functionalities in a single nanoconstruct. Advances in surface modification strategies—such as PEGylation, folate conjugation and antibody attachment—have enhanced circulation half-life and tissue specificity while minimising off-target effects. Controlled generation growth allows systematic tuning of dendrimer size and charge to optimise cellular uptake and endosomal escape. Beyond cancer and gene therapy, dendrimer systems are being explored for antimicrobial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory applications, offering possibilities for combination therapies that address drug resistance and enable triggered or sustained release. Despite challenges related to large-scale synthesis, potential cytotoxicity and regulatory approval, ongoing research continues to refine dendrimer design, moving these nanocarriers closer to clinical translation.
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Dendrimer-Based Drug Delivery Systems in Biomedical Applications publication trend
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Technical terms
Dendrimer: A highly branched, tree-like polymer with a central core, internal layers (generations) and peripheral functional groups.
Generation: A discrete layer of branching in a dendrimer; higher generations yield larger size and more surface groups.
PEGylation: The covalent attachment of polyethylene glycol chains to a molecule or surface to improve solubility and circulation time.
Zeta potential: A measure of surface charge potential that influences particle stability and interactions with cell membranes.
Dendriplex: A complex formed between a dendrimer and nucleic acid (e.g., siRNA), stabilising the cargo for delivery.
Nanotheranostic: A nanoscale agent combining therapeutic and diagnostic functions within a single platform.
References
- The Spicy Science of Dendrimers in the Realm of Cancer Nanomedicine: A Report from the COST Action CA17140 Nano2Clinic. Pharmaceutics (2023).
- Pegylated Gold Nanoparticles Conjugated with siRNA: Complexes Formation and Cytotoxicity. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2023).
- The Antibacterial Effect of PEGylated Carbosilane Dendrimers on P. aeruginosa Alone and in Combination with Phage-Derived Endolysin. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2022).
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