Review of Advanced Materials Technology for Targeted and Sustained Drug Delivery with the Aim of Developing a Roadmap

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 Department of Physics, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Imam Ali Officers' University, Tehran, Iran

2 Independent Researcher

Abstract

The growing complexity of modern medicine necessitates advanced drug delivery systems (DDS) that surpass the limitations of conventional methods in safety, efficacy, and personalization. This review explores innovative materials—such as lipid nanoparticles, hydrogels, dendrimers, metal–organic frameworks, exosomes, silica nanoparticles, and stimuli-responsive polymers—and their potential to achieve targeted, controlled, and responsive drug release. Their biocompatibility, drug-loading efficiency, targeting specificity, and translational readiness have been assessed based on recent literature and clinical data. Furthermore, a five-phase roadmap (2025–2045) has been proposed, charting the anticipated evolution of drug delivery systems (DDS)—from material optimization and hybrid nanosystems to AI-driven design, clinical translation, and sustainable bio-integrated platforms. Emerging technologies—like CRISPR-gated hydrogels, magnetothermal brain tumor delivery, and exosome-based RNA therapies—are highlighted as key drivers of future innovation. Despite significant promise, challenges remain in regulatory alignment, scalability, and long-term safety. This review underscores the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and strategic investment to translate laboratory breakthroughs into real-world solutions—paving the way for precision medicine, equitable access, and sustainable therapeutic delivery.

Keywords

Main Subjects



Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 16 July 2025
  • Receive Date: 22 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 12 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 12 July 2025