Science and Research

Targeted Molecular Therapeutics for Pulmonary Diseases: Addressing the Need for Precise Drug Delivery

Respiratory diseases are a major concern in public health, impacting a large population worldwide. Despite the availability of therapies that alleviate symptoms, selectively addressing the critical points of pathopathways remains a major challenge. Innovative formulations designed for reaching these targets within the airways, enhanced selectivity, and prolonged therapeutic effects offer promising solutions. To provide insights into the specific medical requirements of chronic respiratory diseases, the initial focus of this chapter is directed on lung physiology, emphasizing the significance of lung barriers. Current treatments involving small molecules and the potential of gene therapy are also discussed. Additionally, we will explore targeting approaches, with a particular emphasis on nanoparticles, comparing targeted and non-targeted formulations for pulmonary administration. Finally, the potential of inhaled sphingolipids in the context of respiratory diseases is briefly discussed, highlighting their promising prospects in the field.

  • Carneiro, S.
  • Müller, J. T.
  • Merkel, O. M.

Keywords

  • Humans
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • *Lung Diseases/drug therapy
  • Lung
  • Administration, Inhalation
  • *Respiratory Tract Diseases
  • Gene therapy
  • Inhalation
  • Pulmonary administration
  • Sphingolipids
  • Targeted nanoparticles
Publication details
DOI: 10.1007/164_2023_703
Journal: Handb Exp Pharmacol
Pages: 313-328 
Work Type: Original
Location: CPC-M
Disease Area: General Lung and Other
Partner / Member: HMGU, LMU
Access-Number: 38177399

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