Expert Opinion On Drug Delivery[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Advancing transdermal drug delivery: integration of microneedle technology and iontophoresis for enhanced therapeutic outcomes.
Ghosh M, Dandekar AA, Banga AK … +1 more , Puri A
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 May · PMID 42054413 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Integrated microneedle-iontophoresis (MN-ITP) systems are emerging as a promising approach to improve transdermal drug delivery. These work by dual effect, such as mechanical disruption of the stratum corne...
INTRODUCTION: Integrated microneedle-iontophoresis (MN-ITP) systems are emerging as a promising approach to improve transdermal drug delivery. These work by dual effect, such as mechanical disruption of the stratum corneum along with electrically driven transport. This approach has gained increasing attention for both small molecules and macromolecules, offering the possibility of controlled, minimally invasive administration with improved pharmacokinetic outcomes compared with conventional methods. AREAS COVERED: This review highlights MN-ITP strategies for transdermal delivery, based on a targeted search of major databases, patents, and FDA guidance (1984-2026), emphasizing therapeutic applications since 2015. Different MN-ITP device designs investigated for small molecules as well as larger therapeutics, such as peptides, proteins, and vaccines have been discussed. The review focuses on how device design, drug properties, and delivery performance influence outcomes, and compares integrated simultaneous systems with sequential MN-ITP approaches. EXPERT OPINION/COMMENTARY: Current evidence indicates that integrated MN-ITP systems can enhance transdermal delivery, though outcomes depend on drug properties, loading strategies, and electrical parameters. Combined systems often act complementarily rather than uniformly superior, highlighting the need for rational, drug-specific design. Future work should focus on wearable and closed-loop platforms, optimized current density and MN architecture, and clinical translation.
Soft‑mist inhaler spray dynamics and laryngeal deposition in upper airway models.
Vara Almirall B, Wong CYJ, Ang HQ … +3 more , Traini D, Singh N, Inthavong K
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jul · PMID 42026730 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Targeted laryngeal drug delivery is clinically valuable for procedures requiring rapid topical anesthesia. This study evaluated how the mist from a soft-mist inhaler (Softbreezer) interacts with realistic upp...
BACKGROUND: Targeted laryngeal drug delivery is clinically valuable for procedures requiring rapid topical anesthesia. This study evaluated how the mist from a soft-mist inhaler (Softbreezer) interacts with realistic upper-airway anatomy to influence lidocaine deposition. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: An experimental setup was used to assess deposition from the soft mist inhaler across four upper-airway geometries: two simplified models and two subject-specific models. Each model was tested at inhalation flow rates of 15 and 30 L min. Deposition was quantified across five anatomical regions. High-speed imaging (6100 fps, 20 μs exposure) characterized plume velocity and cone angle. RESULTS: Droplet size distributions were consistent across flow rates (Dv 16 μm). The subject-specific realistic oral inhalation model achieved the highest laryngeal deposition at 5.3% of the delivered dose at 30 L min, compared with 2.1% in the simplified Virginia Commonwealth University model and 1.6% in the subject-specific artificially opened mouth model. The United States Pharmacopoeia model underestimated upper-airway deposition. High-speed imaging confirmed a slow, coherent plume with minimal turbulence. CONCLUSIONS: Physiologically realistic airway geometry captured during oral inhalation should more accurately represent the flow transitions governing laryngeal deposition.
Penetration enhancer-containing vesicles (PEVs): from deformable liposomes to barrier-modulating delivery platforms across multiple administration routes.
Castangia I, Manconi M, Baroli BM … +1 more , Manca ML
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jul · PMID 42024619 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Penetration enhancer-containing vesicles (PEVs) were developed as lipid-based nanocarriers integrating vesicle deformability with controlled modulation of barrier architecture to improve drug permeation and...
INTRODUCTION: Penetration enhancer-containing vesicles (PEVs) were developed as lipid-based nanocarriers integrating vesicle deformability with controlled modulation of barrier architecture to improve drug permeation and tissue deposition. AREAS COVERED: This review provides an overview of the composition, mechanism of actions and applications of PEVs. Initially introduced for dermal and transdermal delivery, PEVs have demonstrated superior performance than conventional liposomes in enhancing skin penetration of synthetic and natural bioactive. Evidence supports extension of the PEV concept to oral, mucosal, nasal, and pulmonary delivery, where permeability, stability, and epithelial interaction represent critical challenges. Particular emphasis is placed on the barrier-oriented design of PEVs, and on the possibility of tailoring penetration enhancer selection according to drug physicochemical properties and target tissues.The literature included in this review was identified in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on 2000 to 2025 and prioritizing recent studies. EXPERT OPINION: PEVs should not be considered merely as improved deformable liposomes but as adaptable barrier-modulating platforms. Their future clinical translation will depend on safety assessment of penetration enhancers, scalable manufacturing strategies, and standardized pharmacokinetic and toxicological evaluation. If supported by systematic translational studies, PEVs may represent a versatile approach for the design of next-generation noninvasive drug delivery systems.
Progress and challenges in drug delivery for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Haghighi FH, Xie J, Ebert ET … +1 more , Siahaan TJ
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jul · PMID 42018938 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder marked by declining memory and cognitive function. Despite recent advances to slowdown early-stage progression, no curative therapies exist due to ch...
INTRODUCTION: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder marked by declining memory and cognitive function. Despite recent advances to slowdown early-stage progression, no curative therapies exist due to challenges in delivering neuroregenerative agents to the brain. AREAS COVERED: This review examines recent research on strategies to modulate the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to enhance the delivery of small-to-large molecules through the paracellular pathway into the brain for potential treatments of AD. A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Scopus covering studies published between 2016 and 2026. EXPERT OPINION: BBB modulation technologies are advancing rapidly and offer real potential to improve delivery of therapeutics in AD patients. Hyperosmotic method has been successfully used to deliver anticancer drugs to treat brain tumor patients and can be used for AD. Recently, focused ultrasound (FUS) has been used to disrupt the BBB at a targeted brain region to enhance paracellular permeation of drug molecules to the brain. Finally, drug permeation through the BBB paracellular pathway can also be enhanced by modulating the protein-protein interactions in the intercellular junctions using BBB modulators (BBBMs). This review covers the mechanisms, advantages, and limitations of these methods as well as recent studies that showcase their ability to deliver therapeutic agents for AD and other brain diseases.
G-quadruplexes as therapeutic platforms for anticancer drug delivery: from intrinsic cytotoxicity to drug delivery and nanotechnology.
Domínguez A, Navarro N, Aviñó A … +2 more , Fàbrega C, Eritja R
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jul · PMID 41979221 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: G-quadruplexes have emerged as a versatile class of oligonucleotides that combine molecular recognition, intrinsic anticancer activity and drug carrier functions, offering new opportunities to improve tumor...
INTRODUCTION: G-quadruplexes have emerged as a versatile class of oligonucleotides that combine molecular recognition, intrinsic anticancer activity and drug carrier functions, offering new opportunities to improve tumor selectivity and overcome limitations of conventional chemotherapy. AREAS COVERED: This review summarizes structural and biological features that make G-quadruplexes attractive platforms for anticancer drug delivery, including cancer-selective uptake, high stability and scaffold versatility. We discuss G-quadruplexes with intrinsic antiproliferative activity, covalent G-quadruplex-drug conjugates including small molecules and nucleoside antimetabolites and G-quadruplexes that non-covalently host G-quadruplex ligands. We further examine G-quadruplex-decorated nanoparticles and DNA nanostructures, as well as, higher-order G-quadruplex architectures that enable multivalent receptor targeting. A literature search was conducted using the Web of Science database to identify peer-reviewed publications related to 'G-quadruplex.' The search covered the period from 2000 to the present (as of 12 January 2026). EXPERT OPINION: G-quadruplexes represent a platform with unique capacity to unify targeting and therapy, offering a promising alternative to antibody-based systems. However, issues such as structural polymorphism, pharmacokinetics, and controlled drug release must be addressed through rational design and chemical modification to fully translate these delivery systems into clinically relevant anticancer therapeutics.
Review of the first on-body injector (OBI) for the subcutaneous delivery of an oncology drug: isatuximab in multiple myeloma.
Ocio EM, Parmar G, Mateos MV … +11 more , Leleu X, Buck TT, Tan CR, Curry NC, Ling S, Quach H, Mai EK, Bobin A, Mohty M, Ailawadhi S, Moreau P
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jul · PMID 41973697 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The landscape of drug-delivery methods in oncology is evolving, with increased availability of subcutaneous (SC) drug administration options. SC injections reduce treatment duration and enhance patient comf...
INTRODUCTION: The landscape of drug-delivery methods in oncology is evolving, with increased availability of subcutaneous (SC) drug administration options. SC injections reduce treatment duration and enhance patient comfort and satisfaction. However, opportunities exist to improve administration modalities, including enhancing practice efficiency and patient experience, addressing needle-phobia, and reducing physical strain for HCPs related to manual injection. Isatuximab (Isa), an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody approved for intravenous administration in multiple myeloma (MM), is being investigated across the MM treatment continuum for SC delivery via an innovative on-body injector (OBI; Isa SC OBI). With a small, retractable needle enabling hands-free delivery, the Isa SC OBI has the potential to address gaps in the MM treatment experience. AREAS COVERED: We conducted a literature search of MEDLINE/PubMed through 2025 for data on the use of an OBI in oncology (through Isa SC OBI), examining its advantages over SC manual or intravenous administration, considerations for clinical practice, ongoing and upcoming clinical trials, and future MM treatment opportunities. EXPERT OPINION: The use of an OBI for the delivery of SC isatuximab could potentially improve clinical workflow, reduce duration of clinical visits and physical burden for HCPs through hands-free administration, and enhance patient experience through the small, hidden needle.
Where do we stand now regarding protein nanoparticles? Perspectives from the Six Thinking Hats framework.
Guo M, Wu C, Pan X … +3 more , Wang W, Hu P, Huang Z
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jul · PMID 41968677 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: This review highlights the critical role of protein nanoparticles (PNPs) in advancing precision therapy and introduces Edward de Bono's Six Thinking Hats (STH) framework as an innovative, structured paradig...
INTRODUCTION: This review highlights the critical role of protein nanoparticles (PNPs) in advancing precision therapy and introduces Edward de Bono's Six Thinking Hats (STH) framework as an innovative, structured paradigm to systematically analyze their development beyond traditional review models. AREAS COVERED: This study conducted a systematic search of the PubMed and Web of Science databases (2016-2025) using the keywords 'protein nanoparticles,' 'drug delivery,' and 'Six Thinking Hats.' Peer-reviewed literature addressing the design, clinical translation, and overcoming of bottlenecks in PNPs was rigorously screened to ensure the rigor of this review. Using the STH framework, we modularly analyze PNPs' core characteristics, clinical advantages (e.g. biocompatibility, targeting), key challenges (immunogenicity, production scalability), and innovative solutions (surface engineering, biomimetic camouflage). A phased translational roadmap is outlined. EXPERT OPINION: The STH framework provides a multidimensional review methodology that effectively identifies and addresses the core 'stability-production-targeting' bottleneck. It holds significant promise for driving the clinical translation of PNPs and can be scaled to other nanodelivery systems to foster interdisciplinary innovation.
Biomimetic nanocarriers as advanced drug delivery strategies in neurological disorders.
Ghosh N, Pathak S, Bera R … +9 more , Sharma A, Kakkar D, Kurmi BD, Srivasatava P, Ghosh M, Karwasra R, Ansori ANM, Das S, Sharma N
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jul · PMID 41964934 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Neurological disorders represent a major and growing global health challenge due to complex central nervous system pathology and limited drug penetration across the blood-brain barrier. Conventional therapi...
INTRODUCTION: Neurological disorders represent a major and growing global health challenge due to complex central nervous system pathology and limited drug penetration across the blood-brain barrier. Conventional therapies are largely symptomatic and often fail to achieve sufficient brain bioavailability or disease modification. Biomimetic nanocarriers have emerged as a promising strategy to improve brain targeting and therapeutic efficacy. AREAS COVERED: This review discusses recent advances in biomimetic nanocarriers for the treatment and diagnosis of neurological disorders. We summarize the pathological mechanisms underlying central nervous system diseases and discuss how cell membrane-coated nanocarriers derived from red blood cells, platelets, immune cells, stem cells, and cancer cells can enhance BBB penetration, immune evasion, and targeted delivery. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to evaluate therapeutic and diagnostic applications in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, autism spectrum disorder, ischemic stroke, and glioblastoma. EXPERT OPINION: Biomimetic nanocarriers offer a promising strategy to overcome biological barriers and improve central nervous system drug delivery. However, clinical translation remains challenged by membrane source standardization, scalability, and safety concerns. Future research should focus on reproducible manufacturing, regulatory frameworks, and long-term toxicity evaluation to accelerate clinical adoption.
Strength data for female shield-activated autoinjector users.
Nilsson NC, Pace-Bedetti H, Hallum L … +1 more , Anker CB
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jul · PMID 41964651 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Shield-activated autoinjectors are common for self-administration of medication, but data describing the strength required for their operation remain scarce. This study quantifies the maximum force capabiliti...
BACKGROUND: Shield-activated autoinjectors are common for self-administration of medication, but data describing the strength required for their operation remain scarce. This study quantifies the maximum force capabilities of female autoinjector users. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: The study crossed three variables: age group (young adolescents, adults, elderly), grip type (power grip, precision grip), and injection site (abdomen, thigh, upper arm). A sample of 123 female United States residents completed six simulated injections using surrogate autoinjectors measuring maximum force (activation force) and mean force at fixed intervals (hold force). RESULTS: The primary results are statistics characterizing the activation and hold force exerted by each group across grip types and injection sites. Adults generally exerted higher activation forces but no significant differences were observed between adolescents and elderly. All participants exerted higher activation forces using power grip regardless of injection site, and injections in the thigh might allow for the highest forces when using power grip, but precision grip forces were less dependent on injection site. CONCLUSIONS: The study provides ecologically valid strength data for female users that can inform force specifications for shield-activated autoinjectors and inform training materials by identifying optimal grip types and injection sites for maximizing force.
3D printed drug delivery devices: recent promises and challenges.
Poudel I, Zhang C, Mita N … +3 more , Arnold RD, Tiwari AK, Babu RJ
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jul · PMID 41964521 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: 3D printing (3DP) has gained decent pace in the past decade in the pharmaceutical and biomedical fields. The approval of 3D-printed medical devices has gained more attraction than that of 3D-printed drug pr...
INTRODUCTION: 3D printing (3DP) has gained decent pace in the past decade in the pharmaceutical and biomedical fields. The approval of 3D-printed medical devices has gained more attraction than that of 3D-printed drug products. However, concerns related to cost-effectiveness, efficacy, and large-scale manufacturing are still prevalent, thus challenging the mainstream development of 3D-printed drug delivery devices. AREAS COVERED: Drug delivery devices and scaffolds, along with the possibilities involving artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and automation, for personalized applications. The regulatory guidelines, as well as a glimpse of drug delivery devices under clinical trials, are discussed. EXPERT OPINION: Although 3DP offers patient-tailored, on-demand products, its clinical adoption is hindered by regulatory barriers, limited standards, and scalability issues. Integrating AI/ML could offer real-time adaptive clinical manufacturing; however, the guidelines for these disruptive technologies are often unclear. With patient-centric manufacturing, 3D-printed devices and scaffolds could play a key role in personalized medicine, delivering targeted and effective therapies.The transition from proof-of-concept to real-world testing underscores the growing feasibility and clinical relevance of 3DP technologies. With rapid progress in bio-responsive materials and AI-driven design tools, 3D-printed delivery platforms are expected to improve in adaptability and therapeutic effectiveness for next-generation personalized therapies.
Key aspects to optimize inhalation therapy in people with respiratory diseases: a review integrating clinical, technological, and educational evidence.
Torres-Castro R, Otto-Yáñez M, Lopes Cardoso N … +6 more , Puppo H, Zenteno D, Pérez-Alarcón G, Antúnez Riveros M, Resqueti V, Vera-Uribe R
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jul · PMID 41941701 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Respiratory diseases represent a significant global health burden, and inhaled drug therapy remains a central component in their management. Despite the availability of effective medications, suboptimal dev...
INTRODUCTION: Respiratory diseases represent a significant global health burden, and inhaled drug therapy remains a central component in their management. Despite the availability of effective medications, suboptimal device selection, poor inhaler technique, and limited patient education substantially compromise treatment effectiveness. The expanding diversity of inhaler devices, spacers, and valved holding chambers (VHCs) has enabled more individualized care but has also increased clinical complexity. AREAS COVERED: This review synthesizes current evidence on inhaler device selection and use, with particular emphasis on pressurized metered-dose inhalers combined with spacers or VHCs, chamber characteristics, and dry powder inhalers. It also addresses common inhaler technique errors, hygiene, and maintenance, and the role of educational programs. Evidence from bench studies, clinical trials, pharmacokinetic investigations, and guideline documents is integrated to highlight how device design, patient-related factors, and training interact to determine drug delivery and clinical outcomes. EXPERT OPINION: Optimizing inhaled therapy requires viewing each inhaler-patient pairing as a specific delivery system rather than interchangeable components. Durable antistatic VHCs, appropriate interfaces, and regular technique assessment with targeted education should be the standard of care. Future efforts should prioritize device-specific guidance, scalable education strategies, and implementation research to close the persistent gap between evidence and real-world practice.
An update on the port delivery system with ranibizumab for retinal diseases.
Samman M, Khan H, Aziz AA … +2 more , Patel R, Khanani AM
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jun · PMID 41937714 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy (DR), and diabetic macular edema (DME) are among the leading causes of irreversible vision loss globally. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor...
INTRODUCTION: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy (DR), and diabetic macular edema (DME) are among the leading causes of irreversible vision loss globally. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapeutics have revolutionized the treatment and management of retinal vascular diseases. Management of these retinal diseases is highly individualized, with treatment intervals ranging from 4 to 16 weeks. The port-delivery system (PDS) with ranibizumab is a refillable implant that has demonstrated safety and efficacy while also improving treatment burden by decreasing the need for frequent injections. AREAS COVERED: Multiple FDA-approved therapeutics are available to physicians for treating and managing retinal diseases. The ultimate goal is to achieve optimal visual and anatomic outcomes while also ensuring individualized treatment. A literature search was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, and pharmaceutical companies' websites from 2005 to December 2025 to review clinical data, highlight the utility of the PDS, and detail the improved structure following the voluntary class III recall. EXPERT OPINION: The PDS provides a medium to maintain treatment of retinal vascular disease over an extended period of time. Although physicians may feel hesitant to implant the device, refinements in surgical technique and the refill-exchange procedure, along with improvements to the device, may encourage more clinical uptake of PDS in appropriate patients.
Leveraging intraperitoneal delivery of Toll-like receptor agonists to treat peritoneal metastases.
Yan H, Chia D, Ernst S … +3 more , Demuytere J, Cosyns S, Ceelen W
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jul · PMID 41926324 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Peritoneal metastases (PM) remain a major clinical challenge, marked by poor prognosis and a profoundly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists are particularly attractiv...
INTRODUCTION: Peritoneal metastases (PM) remain a major clinical challenge, marked by poor prognosis and a profoundly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists are particularly attractive due to their ability to activate both innate and adaptive immunity, effectively converting 'cold' tumors. However, systemic administration of TLR agonists is hampered by rapid clearance and dose-limiting toxicity. Intraperitoneal (IP) delivery of TLR provides a pharmacokinetic and immunologic advantage in PM treatment by achieving sustained local drug concentrations in the peritoneal cavity while reducing systemic exposure. AREAS COVERED: We outline the expression, relevant signaling pathways, and immune effects of TLRs. The effects of IP delivery of TLR4, TLR9, and TLR 7/8 agonists observed and in preclinical models are systematically reviewed, including delivery as nanoparticles or as a prolonged delivery system. The available clinical studies are reviewed, and challenges and future directions are discussed. A systematic literature search across major databases until January 2026 supports these findings. EXPERT OPINION: Preclinical models and early clinical trials have demonstrated that intraperitoneal administration of TLR agonists can modulate the peritoneal immune microenvironment, reverse local immunosuppression, and synergize with other therapies. Together, the evidence supports IP TLR agonist therapy as a novel and promising strategy for the treatment of peritoneal metastases.
Smart delivery systems for magnetic hyperthermia: the role of thermoresponsive drug delivery.
Gonçalves A, Soares PIP
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jun · PMID 41919319 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH) is a cancer treatment option that relies on localized magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) that, when exposed to an alternating magnetic field (AMF), can increase the tumor temper...
INTRODUCTION: Magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH) is a cancer treatment option that relies on localized magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) that, when exposed to an alternating magnetic field (AMF), can increase the tumor temperature and induce controlled cell death. However, heat alone may not be sufficient to completely eradicate the tumor, often being combined with chemotherapy. In this sense, the incorporation of MNPs into thermoresponsive systems yields a complex system in which this combination can be achieved within a single platform. AREAS COVERED: This review examines the most important aspects of designing a magnetothermally responsive system, focusing on the influence of thermal activation mode and on bulk and localized heating methods. The influence of polymer architecture and network design on system performance and spatio-temporal control is also analyzed. Further analysis of the mechanisms and kinetics of thermally induced drug release is also provided, demonstrating the possibilities and the limitations in the current literature. EXPERT OPINION: The authors state that current magnetothermal devices are limited by an overreliance on external heating sources and by insufficient mechanistic quantification of AMF-specific local heating effects on transport regimes. They highlight the need for quantitative structure-property relationships and propose integrating advanced design features for reliable thermal control.
Nanoparticle-based approaches to improve the treatment of middle and external ear infections.
Jaromin A, Boyd BJ, Fraczek M
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jun · PMID 41891600 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Rethinking probiotic delivery: new hope for preventing necrotizing enterocolitis.
Chen SJ, Wayne CD, Jacobs TH … +1 more , Besner GE
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jun · PMID 41866722 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating disease of the gastrointestinal tract that mainly affects premature newborns, with mortality rates exceeding 50% in the most severe cases. Despite decades of...
INTRODUCTION: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating disease of the gastrointestinal tract that mainly affects premature newborns, with mortality rates exceeding 50% in the most severe cases. Despite decades of research the disease persists, there is no known cure, and treatment consists of supportive care only. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiome has been implicated as a contributing factor to the development of NEC. With a deepening understanding of the therapeutic efficacy of probiotics in reversing intestinal dysbiosis, a potential avenue to prevent this disease has emerged. AREAS COVERED: Through review of the literature related to probiotics in NEC and novel oral delivery methods for probiotics, we will discuss what is known about preventing NEC with commercially available probiotics. We will discuss the challenges imposed on probiotic therapy by the September 2023 FDA warning on probiotic administration to premature babies. We will also examine novel delivery methods for probiotics that can enhance their beneficial capabilities. EXPERT OPINION: By obtaining approval for novel oral probiotic delivery technologies including biofilm formation and prebiotic co-ride, the risk of NEC in premature infants could be significantly decreased.
Theranostic metallic nanoconjugates for colorectal cancer: targeting strategies, imaging modalities, and translational challenges.
Kamal R, Chauhan A, Singh TG … +2 more , Dhiman S, Awasthi A
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jun · PMID 41841716 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major global health burden, with high mortality largely driven by late diagnosis, limited tumor specificity of conventional therapies, and treatment-related toxicities. Inn...
INTRODUCTION: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major global health burden, with high mortality largely driven by late diagnosis, limited tumor specificity of conventional therapies, and treatment-related toxicities. Innovative strategies are urgently needed to improve diagnostic precision and therapeutic selectivity. AREAS COVERED: This review examines recent advances in metallic nanoparticle (MNP) - based theranostic systems for CRC, with particular emphasis on surface modification, ligand conjugation, tumor-targeting mechanisms, and integrated imaging - therapy platforms. A structured literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, covering publications from 2010 to 2025. The literature discussed encompasses studies, preclinical animal models, and emerging translational research, highlighting how physicochemical tuning and biological functionalization influence biodistribution, tumor uptake, and therapeutic response. EXPERT OPINION: Although conjugated MNPs demonstrate substantial promise for image-guided and tumor-responsive therapy, their clinical translation remains constrained by biological heterogeneity, manufacturing complexity, regulatory uncertainty, and insufficient long-term safety data. Future progress will depend on simplified nanoplatform designs, clinically relevant disease models, and integration of real-time diagnostic feedback. Rather than replacing established treatments, MNP-based theranostics are most likely to emerge as precision adjuncts in selected CRC settings, shaping more adaptive and data-driven therapeutic paradigms.
The lung (surfing) dealer: pulmonary surfactant and drug delivery.
Cañadas O, Hidalgo A, Pérez-Gil J
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jun · PMID 41831035 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The pulmonary route is an attractive route for drug delivery due to its large surface area, extensive vascularization, and avoidance of hepatic first-pass metabolism. Nevertheless, reaching alveolar regions...
INTRODUCTION: The pulmonary route is an attractive route for drug delivery due to its large surface area, extensive vascularization, and avoidance of hepatic first-pass metabolism. Nevertheless, reaching alveolar regions typically requires a complex balance of aerodynamic particle size, airway geometry, patient cooperation and ventilatory capacity. AREAS COVERED: Research during two decades has pursued the potential use of pulmonary surfactant, the lipid-protein complex that lines and stabilizes the respiratory air-liquid interface, as drug delivery agent. Lung surfactant may incorporate and solubilize hydrophobic drugs, which could then be delivered into the airways as part of surfactant-based liposomes or nanoparticles. In this review, we summarize recent advances as they have reframed the air-lung lining fluid interface to open the innovative concept of : drugs could actively over the respiratory surface, driven by interfacial forces such as those defining pulmonary surfactant action. Literature included in this review was systematically searched in PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar using targeted keyword combinations. EXPERT OPINION: Key knowledge gaps and technological challenges are identified whose investigation will contribute to develop the full potential of PS-based inhalation delivery strategies.
Recent advances in microneedle technology in transdermal drug delivery systems.
Kushwaha A, Goswami L, Amiryaghoubi N … +1 more , Kim BS
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jun · PMID 41794409 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDs) offer significant advantages over traditional drug administration routes (oral and parenteral); however, the barrier function of the stratum corneum limits its appli...
INTRODUCTION: Transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDs) offer significant advantages over traditional drug administration routes (oral and parenteral); however, the barrier function of the stratum corneum limits its application to compounds possessing the obligatory physicochemical characteristics. To overcome the limitations of TDD, micro-sized needles can be used. Microneedles (MN), a non-invasive drug delivery system, can disrupt the skin's integrity, generating microchannels that facilitate the efficient infusion of drugs. AREAS COVERED: The review highlights the designing, (bio)materials utilized, classification, fabrication, optimization, and characterization of microneedles for TDDs application. The application of microneedles for vaccination, sustained transdermal delivery, biologics, targeted drug delivery, cosmetics, and advanced therapeutic applications are explored. The involvement of computational modeling and AI-driven approaches, 3D printing, etc. is included. The critical challenges in microneedle development, e.g., dimensional concerns, safety, adequacy, toxicity, scalability, regulatory, and sustainability, are also covered. EXPERT OPINION: Developments in the MN technology have extended the potential of the transdermal drug delivery system, holding potential to transform areas like immunization, chronic disease treatment, pain management, and real-time biomonitoring. In the upcoming decade, drug delivery procedures are expected to prioritize people's ease and self-supervision; however, supervisory synchronization, maneuver calibration, and sustained novelty will be indispensable for MNs to develop as a standard of care.
Hyaluronic acid-based systems for brain drug delivery: bridging material design and cellular response.
Serri C, Langellotto MD, Arshad SG … +9 more , Piccioni M, Scialla S, Di Mola A, Sportiello P, Rassu G, Massa A, Crispi S, Gavini E, Guarino V
Expert Opin Drug Deliv · 2026 Jun · PMID 41782574 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Over the past decade, mucoadhesive polymers have gained increasing attention as key enablers in the development of advanced drug delivery systems for brain therapies. Among them, hyaluronic acid (HA) stands...
INTRODUCTION: Over the past decade, mucoadhesive polymers have gained increasing attention as key enablers in the development of advanced drug delivery systems for brain therapies. Among them, hyaluronic acid (HA) stands out for its exceptional tunability, biocompatibility, and processability, positioning it as a highly promising candidate for the treatment of central nervous systems (CNS) disorders across multiple administration routes (i.e. parenteral, intranasal, and oral). AREAS COVERED: Current discoveries in material science and pharmaceutic formulations offer the chance to design HA-based transformative carriers for brain delivery and targeting, promoting a receptor-specific uptake and precise modulation of therapeutic responses within the CNS. Herein, recent advances in the design of HA-based platforms for brain drug delivery were critically examined with a particular focus on emerging strategies for HA synthesis, functionalization, and processing. By integrating advanced carrier design to innovative strategies of molecular targeting, HA-based systems can enhance brain accumulation, improve safety profiles, and unlock multimodal treatments. EXPERT OPINION: HA-based platforms open new avenues to enhance drug targeting, therapeutic efficacy, and overall patient outcomes. Future challenge will be to overcome manufacturing, scalability, and translational barriers to translate this powerful platform from preclinical promise to clinical reality.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe