Triggered-release mechanism offers new drug delivery potential

UK scientists have devised a new method for triggering the rearrangement of chemical particles that could have significant potential in the field of drug delivery.

The University of Warwick team have found a way of using a pair of parent nanoparticles, designed to interact only when in proximity to each other, to trigger the release of drug molecules contained within both.

It is thought that the release of drug molecules from the parent nanoparticles could prompt the formation of a third particle type, comprising molecules from the other two, via a process called stereocomplexation.

The researchers believe this technique could offer benefits by allowing drugs to be released only where required, potentially limiting the side effects associated with treatment.

Study leader Professor Andrew Dove said: "We're planning to study this as a new treatment for cancer, but the principle could potentially be applied to a wide range of diseases."

Drug delivery methods are a key area of research for life scientists, owing to the importance of ensuring therapeutic agents reach the parts of the body where they are needed, without being absorbed by or causing damage to other tissues.