Biomimetic particles as therapeutics

Trends Biotechnol. 2015 Sep;33(9):514-524. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2015.07.001. Epub 2015 Aug 12.

Abstract

In recent years, there have been major advances in the development of novel nanoparticle- and microparticle-based therapeutics. An emerging paradigm is the incorporation of biomimetic features into these synthetic therapeutic constructs to enable them to better interface with biological systems. Through the control of size, shape, and material consistency, particle cores have been generated that better mimic natural cells and viruses. In addition, there have been significant advances in biomimetic surface functionalization of particles through the integration of bio-inspired artificial cell membranes and naturally derived cell membranes. Biomimetic technologies enable therapeutic particles to have increased potency to benefit human health.

Keywords: biomaterial; biomimetic; drug delivery; micro/nanoparticle.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biomimetic Materials / chemistry
  • Biomimetic Materials / therapeutic use*
  • Biomimetics*
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry
  • Nanoparticles / therapeutic use*
  • Nanoparticles / ultrastructure
  • Nanotechnology*