Multidimensional targeting: using physical and chemical forces in unison.
Targeted drug delivery has traditionally relied on finding highly specific biochemical markers at a target location. However, recent developments in this area have shown that purely physical and physicochemical factors are as important and can be used to aid in the targeting process. Here, we review the physicochemical factors affecting the targeting and delivery process and their relation to established biochemical markers. We refer to this combined approach as multidimensional targeting (MDT). More specifically, we examine the role of MDT factors across different length scales of relevance to the drug delivery pathway. Finally, we conclude with our perspective on the future of this burgeoning area.
Van Lehn
R C
RC
Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
Sing
C E
CE
Chen
H
H
Alexander-Katz
A
A
D000818:Animals; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000378:metabolism; D002626:Chemistry, Pharmaceutical / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends; D006801:Humans; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism; D055585:Physical Phenomena
D015415:Biomarkers; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations