Dendriplex-Impregnated Hydrogels With Programmed Release Rate

Hydrogels are biocompatible matrices for local delivery of nucleic acids; however, functional dopants are required to provide efficient delivery into cells. In particular, dendrimers, known as robust nucleic acid carriers, can be used as dopants. Herein, we report the first example of impregnating neutral hydrogels with siRNA–dendrimer complexes. The surface chemistry of dendrimers allows adjusting the release rate of siRNA-containing complexes. This methodology can bring new materials for biomedical applications.

Gels for constant and smart delivery of insulin

The focus of this review is the role of gelatinous materials for oral, transdermal and peritoneal insulin platforms as alternatives to the ubiquitous subcutaneous depot approach. Hydrogels that form hydrated, cohesive materials and the topologically complex micellar types can add ligand interaction, bond vulnerability and rheological characteristics to develop reliable programmed release, including closed loop (automated basal and bolus) activity in non-oral routes. In addition, the potential protection of the protein and likely increased paracellular uptake mean that orally active insulin is feasible. While unlikely to be suitable for closed loop delivery, the driver for gut absorption is not only to increase the convenience and decrease dosage trauma, but to target the mesentery-portal vasculature rather than peripheral tissue, thus improving hepatic glycogen equilibrium and reducing the obesogenic effect and hypoglycaemic episodes.

Transport and programmed release of nanoscale cargo from cells by using NETosis

Immune cells take up nanoscale materials and can be programmed to release it again, which has important implications for understanding cellular functions, biocompatibility as well as biomedical applications.

Inflammation-responsive nanocapsules for the dual-release of antibacterial drugs

Inflammation-responsive silica nanocapsules allow a programmed release of dual antibiotics at different pH values, corresponding to various stages of wound healing.