Applications of pi-pi stacking interactions in the design of drug-delivery systems

摘要

Noncovalent forces are of considerable importance in the formation of self-assembled drug-delivery systems. In addition to non-destructively linking the delivery vehicle and guest drug, they provide multiple advantages, including protecting the structure of the drug, maintaining its functional effects, and facilitating its release. In particular, pi-pi stacking interactions have potential application in a comprehensive range of biomedical and biotechnological fields. Because they do not alter structural or functional properties of drugs, pi-pi stacking interactions have been used as a driving force in loading drugs into delivery systems, and in the design of self-assembling systems. Moreover, since the pi-pi stacking force is affected by environmental conditions such as pH, it has been used to design environment-responsive drug-delivery systems. In this review, we cover features of pi-pi stacking interactions and their applications to the design of drug-delivery systems. Carbon nanotubes, graphene-based nanomaterials, micelles and hydrogels-all delivery systems capable of pi-pi stacking interactions-are the focus. We also cover pi-pi stacking interaction-based loading of chemicals or biological drugs into delivery systems, and controlled release of drugs from delivery systems in certain environments. In addition, we examine the in vivo barriers for pi-pi stacking interaction-based drug delivery, and discuss challenges for clinical applications and future directions.