PEGylation, successful approach to drug delivery.
PEGylation defines the modification of a protein, peptide or non-peptide molecule by the linking of one or more polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains. This polymer is non-toxic, non-immunogenic, non-antigenic, highly soluble in water and FDA approved. The PEG-drug conjugates have several advantages: a prolonged residence in body, a decreased degradation by metabolic enzymes and a reduction or elimination of protein immunogenicity. Thanks to these favorable properties, PEGylation now plays an important role in drug delivery, enhancing the potentials of peptides and proteins as therapeutic agents.
Veronese
Francesco M
FM
Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Padua University, Italy. francesco.veronese@unipd.it
Pasut
Gianfranco
G
D004337:Drug Carriers; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems / Q000379:methods*; D010455:Peptides / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000737:chemistry; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols / Q000737:chemistry*; D011506:Proteins / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000737:chemistry
D004337:Drug Carriers; D010455:Peptides; D011506:Proteins; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols