Reactive oxygen species driven prodrug-based nanoscale carriers for transformative therapies

Biomater Sci. 2024 Aug 20;12(17):4335-4353. doi: 10.1039/d4bm00647j.

Abstract

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) drive processes in various pathological conditions serving as an attractive target for therapeutic strategies. This review highlights the development and use of ROS-dependent prodrug-based nanoscale carriers that has transformed many biomedical applications. Incorporating prodrugs into nanoscale carriers not only improves their stability and solubility but also enables site-specific drug delivery ultimately enhancing the therapeutic effectiveness of the nanoscale carriers. We critically examine recent advances in ROS-responsive nanoparticulate platforms, encompassing liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and inorganic nanocarriers. These platforms facilitate precise control over drug release upon encountering elevated ROS levels at disease sites, thereby minimizing off-target effects and maximizing therapeutic efficiency. Furthermore, we investigate the potential of combination therapies in which ROS-activated prodrugs are combined with other therapeutic agents and underscore their synergistic potential for treating multifaceted diseases. This comprehensive review highlights the immense potential of ROS-dependent prodrug-based nanoparticulate systems in revolutionizing biomedical applications; such nanoparticulate systems can facilitate selective and controlled drug delivery, reduce toxicity, and improve therapeutic outcomes for ROS-associated diseases.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Drug Carriers* / chemistry
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Humans
  • Liposomes / chemistry
  • Nanoparticles* / chemistry
  • Polymers / chemistry
  • Prodrugs* / administration & dosage
  • Prodrugs* / chemistry
  • Prodrugs* / pharmacology
  • Reactive Oxygen Species* / metabolism

Substances

  • Prodrugs
  • Reactive Oxygen Species
  • Drug Carriers
  • Liposomes
  • Polymers