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Layer‐By‐Layer‐Assembled Capsules and Films for Therapeutic Delivery
Author(s) -
Becker Alisa L.,
Johnston Angus P. R.,
Caruso Frank
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
small
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.785
H-Index - 236
eISSN - 1613-6829
pISSN - 1613-6810
DOI - 10.1002/smll.201000379
Subject(s) - drug delivery , nanotechnology , payload (computing) , layer by layer , materials science , layer (electronics) , computer science , computer network , network packet
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.