Issue 7, 2015

Drug-free macromolecular therapeutics – a new paradigm in polymeric nanomedicines

Abstract

This review highlights a unique research area in polymer-based nanomedicine designs. Drug-free macromolecular therapeutics induce apoptosis of malignant cells by the crosslinking of surface non-internalizing receptors. The receptor crosslinking is mediated by the biorecognition of high-fidelity natural binding motifs (such as antiparallel coiled-coil peptides or complementary oligonucleotides) that are grafted to the side chains of polymers or attached to targeting moieties against cell receptors. This approach features the absence of low-molecular-weight cytotoxic compounds. Here, we summarize the rationales, different designs, and advantages of drug-free macromolecular therapeutics. Recent developments of novel therapeutic systems for B-cell lymphomas are discussed, as well as relevant approaches for other diseases. We conclude by pointing out various potential future directions in this exciting new field.

Graphical abstract: Drug-free macromolecular therapeutics – a new paradigm in polymeric nanomedicines

Article information

Article type
Review Article
Submitted
18 dec 2014
Accepted
26 jan 2015
First published
05 feb 2015

Biomater. Sci., 2015,3, 908-922

Author version available

Drug-free macromolecular therapeutics – a new paradigm in polymeric nanomedicines

T. Chu and J. Kopeček, Biomater. Sci., 2015, 3, 908 DOI: 10.1039/C4BM00442F

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