Polyelectrolyte complexes as prospective carriers for the oral delivery of protein therapeutics.
The oral administration of protein therapeutics is hindered by the multitude of barriers confronted by these molecules along the gastrointestinal tract (i.e., acidic environment, proteolytic degradation, mucosal barrier, etc.). Their unique properties (e.g., high molecular weight, hydrophilicity, charge, etc.) and labile structure are mainly responsible for their instability in the harsh conditions along the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and dictate the employment of alternative routes for their administration (e.g., parenteral). The association of proteins with colloidal carriers represents an interesting approach to overcome the aforementioned issues. However, certain requirements, such as stability in the GIT, stimuli-responsiveness, protection of the encapsulated biomolecule from enzymatic degradation and permeability of the mucosa, have to be met in order to efficiently deliver the sensitive payload to the intended site of action, thus resulting in enhanced bioavailability. The formation of colloidal polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) seems to be a promising strategy towards this direction, and the present review aims to provide an insight into PECs (e.g., preparation methods, characteristics) along with their advantages and drawbacks as drug delivery vehicles for the oral administration of protein-based therapeutics.
['Bourganis|Vassilis|V|', 'Karamanidou|Theodora|T|', 'Kammona|Olga|O|', 'Kiparissides|Costas|C|']
D000284:Administration, Oral D000818:Animals D001682:Biological Availability D001786:Blood Glucose D003102:Colloids D004058:Diffusion D004337:Drug Carriers D005753:Gastric Mucosa D041981:Gastrointestinal Tract D006801:Humans D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration D046911:Macromolecular Substances D010455:Peptides D010539:Permeability D000071228:Polyelectrolytes D011108:Polymers D011506:Proteins D013997:Time Factors
Polyelectrolyte complexes Polyelectrolytes Oral delivery Proteins Mucosa Colloidal nanocarriers Drug delivery systems