195
Views
70
CrossRef citations to date
0
Altmetric
Review

The role of biomimetism in developing nanostructured inorganic matrices for drug delivery

, &
Pages 861-877 | Published online: 19 Aug 2008
 

Abstract

Background: Biomimetism of synthetic biomaterials can be carried out at different levels, such as composition, structure, morphology, bulk and surface chemical–physical properties. Biomaterials can be turned into biomimetic imprinting of all these characteristics in order not only to optimise their interaction with biological tissues, but also to mimic biogenic materials in their functionalities. Objective: This review outlines the biomimetic chemical–physical properties of inorganic matrices in controlling drug release. Methods: This review is restricted to phosphates and silica among inorganic biomaterials proposed as drug delivery vehicles. Conclusion: By mimicking nature, we can design and synthesise inorganic smart materials that are reactive towards biological tissues and can release bioactive molecules by a kinetic that is controlled not only by the matrix tailored chemical–physical properties, but also by the response to stimuli induced by physiological or pathological processes.

Notes

Reprints and Corporate Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

To request a reprint or corporate permissions for this article, please click on the relevant link below:

Academic Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

Obtain permissions instantly via Rightslink by clicking on the button below:

If you are unable to obtain permissions via Rightslink, please complete and submit this Permissions form. For more information, please visit our Permissions help page.