DNA nanostructures for stimuli-responsive drug delivery

Abstract

DNA molecules have shown potential for drug delivery owing to their predictability and programmability. Due to the continuous development of DNA nanotechnology and the unique properties of DNA nanomaterials, many drug delivery systems based on stimuli-responsive DNA nanostructures have emerged. DNA nanostructures can be used as intelligent drug delivery vehicles to perform complex tasks, such as selectively deliver loads to targeted sites, and trigger the release of loads in response to stimuli. Herein, we systematically reviewed the recent studies on various stimuli-responsive DNA nanostructure based drug delivery systems and classified them according to different types of stimuli. Designing strategies and drug release behaviors were discussed. In the end, current challenges and prospects regarding this promising field were highlighted.

Keywords

• DNA nanostructure
• Stimuli-responsive
• Drug delivery systems
• Responsive mechanisms