Next-Generation Delivery Systems for Biopharmaceuticals Recent Advances in Protein, Peptide, mRNA, and Gene Delivery
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64882/ijrt.v13.i4.1796Keywords:
Biopharmaceuticals, Protein delivery, Peptide delivery, mRNA delivery, Targeted drug delivery, Nanocarriers, Lipid nanoparticles, Gene deliveryAbstract
The development of next-generation delivery systems has become essential for unlocking the therapeutic potential of biopharmaceuticals, particularly proteins, peptides, messenger RNA (mRNA) and gene therapeutics. This review examines recent advances in nanotechnology-enabled and biomimetic delivery platforms designed to overcome major biological and formulation barriers, including enzymatic degradation, poor membrane permeability, instability, rapid clearance, inefficient cellular uptake and inadequate tissue targeting. Contemporary systems such as lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, lipid-based carriers, extracellular vesicles, viral vectors and non-viral gene delivery platforms are evaluated according to their mechanisms, therapeutic applications, advantages and translational limitations. Particular emphasis is placed on lipid nanoparticles, which have demonstrated substantial clinical success in mRNA delivery and have subsequently stimulated research into vaccines, protein replacement, cancer therapy and gene-editing applications. Advanced protein and peptide delivery approaches are also considered, with emphasis on oral bioavailability, permeation enhancement, controlled release and protection from gastrointestinal degradation. The review further discusses targeted and intracellular delivery strategies, manufacturing challenges, safety considerations, tissue selectivity and regulatory barriers The evidence indicates a transition from conventional passive carriers towards multifunctional, precision-engineered systems capable of integrating cargo protection, targeting, cellular uptake and controlled intracellular release. Continued advances in biomaterials, molecular engineering and delivery optimisation are expected to improve the clinical translation of complex biopharmaceutical therapeutics.
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