title: Recent advances in polymeric microspheres for parenteral drug delivery--part 2.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Currently marketed microsphere products are manufactured with the use of organic solvents which have a negative impact on the environment and stability of biological molecules. With recent advances in fabrication technologies, solvent free methods have demonstrated potential for the preparation of microspheres.
  
  
  METHODS
  New technical advances recently achieved in solvent based microsphere manufacturing processes have allowed for major improvement in product quality and properties. Novel solvent free fabrication methods combined with newly functionalized biodegradable polymers have been explored for their application in the preparation of microspheres containing biological molecules.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Novel fabrication methods for microspheres have been recently reported but technical challenges and development risks remain high for scale up from bench to industrial commercialization. While the applications of microspheres for delivery of proteins, genes and vaccines have shown promise for clinical use, the approval of newly functionalized polymers as carriers may still face scrutiny on safety and biocompatibility, which can be key factors in securing the regulatory approval of the product.
authors.affiliation: Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, School of Pharmacy, China.
authors.forename: Shirui
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Mao
authors.forename: Chunqiang
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Guo
authors.forename: Yi
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Shi
authors.forename: Luk Chiu
authors.initials: LC
authors.lastname: Li
mesh_terms: D004337:Drug Carriers; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems / Q000379:methods*; D018014:Gene Transfer Techniques; D006801:Humans; D008863:Microspheres; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage; D011108:Polymers / Q000737:chemistry; D011506:Proteins / Q000008:administration & dosage; D013678:Technology, Pharmaceutical / Q000379:methods*; D014612:Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage
chemical_list: D004337:Drug Carriers; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations; D011108:Polymers; D011506:Proteins; D014612:Vaccines