Next Materials (Apr 2025)

DNA polymer conjugates: Revolutionizing neurological disorder treatment through targeted drug delivery

  • Pratikeswar Panda,
  • Swapna Sudhir Kar,
  • Rajaram Mohapatra

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 7
p. 100336

Abstract

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Neurological disorders present a formidable challenge to modern medicine due to their complex etiology and limited treatment options. Traditional therapeutic approaches often struggle to penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB) effectively, hindering the delivery of drugs to the central nervous system (CNS). However, recent advancements in nanotechnology have opened new avenues for targeted drug delivery, among which DNA polymer conjugates have emerged as promising candidates. Various types of DNA polymer conjugation strategies have been developed, including covalent attachment, non-covalent assembly, and aptamer-mediated conjugation. Covalent attachment involves the direct bonding of drugs to DNA polymers, ensuring stable complexes capable of traversing the BBB. These DNA polymer conjugates exhibit multifaceted functionalities in the context of neurological disorders. They can enhance BBB permeability, enabling efficient transport of therapeutics into the CNS. Moreover, conjugates functionalized with targeting ligands can selectively bind to receptors overexpressed in diseased tissues, minimizing off-target effects. Additionally, DNA polymers provide a platform for the controlled release of drugs, optimizing their pharmacokinetics and improving therapeutic efficacy while reducing systemic toxicity. In conclusion, DNA polymer conjugates represent a promising paradigm in the treatment of neurological disorders, offering precise targeting, enhanced drug delivery, and reduced adverse effects. Continued research into the design and optimization of these conjugates holds immense potential for revolutionizing the management of various neurological conditions.

Keywords