Drug delivery: Layer‐By‐Layer‐Assembled Capsules and Films for Therapeutic Delivery (Small 17/2010) |
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Authors: | Alisa L Becker Angus P R Johnston Frank Caruso |
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Affiliation: | Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia |
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Abstract: | Polymeric materials formed via layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembly have promise for use as drug delivery vehicles. These multilayered materials, both as capsules and thin films, can encapsulate a high payload of toxic or sensitive drugs, and can be readily engineered and functionalized with specific properties. This review highlights important and recent studies that advance the use of LbL‐assembled materials as therapeutic devices. It also seeks to identify areas that require additional investigation for future development of the field. A variety of drug‐loading methods and delivery routes are discussed. The biological barriers to successful delivery are identified, and possible solutions to these problems are discussed. Finally, state‐of‐the‐art degradation and cargo release mechanisms are also presented. |
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Keywords: | layer‐by‐layer assembly drug delivery thin films degradation encapsulation |
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