Dendrimers - from organic synthesis to pharmaceutical applications: an update

Pharm Dev Technol. 2015 Jan;20(1):22-40. doi: 10.3109/10837450.2013.862264. Epub 2013 Dec 4.

Abstract

Dendrimers are a relatively new class of monodisperse polymers, which have tree-like spherical structures with well-defined sizes and shapes. Their unique structure has a significant impact on their physical and chemical properties. Research on dendrimers is of significant interest to scientists from all areas and their utility in various scientific fields, including pharmaceuticals, is expanding. The present review is comprehensive and covers different aspects of dendrimers viz. (1) synthesis, (2) properties and (3) pharmaceutical applications. The emphasis is on their applications as well as the current ongoing research status for drug targeting.

Keywords: Dendrimer classification; drug delivery; spherical polymers.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Carbohydrate Sequence
  • Chemistry Techniques, Synthetic
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Dendrimers / chemistry*
  • Dendrimers / pharmacology*
  • Dendrimers / therapeutic use
  • Drug Carriers / chemistry
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Humans
  • Models, Molecular
  • Molecular Conformation
  • Pharmaceutical Vehicles

Substances

  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Dendrimers
  • Drug Carriers
  • Pharmaceutical Vehicles