Advancements in Drug Delivery Systems: A Focus on Microsphere-Based Targeted Delivery

Microspheres have emerged as a promising drug delivery system, offering targeted and controlled release of therapeutic agents. This review aims to explore the advancements in microsphere-based drug delivery, focusing on their physicochemical properties, production methods, and diverse applications. Microspheres are typically constructed from biocompatible and biodegradable polymers such as PLGA, PCL, chitosan, alginate, and gelatin, which can encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs. By modifying the polymer composition, size, and structure of microspheres, the drug release kinetics can be precisely controlled through mechanisms like diffusion and erosion. Microspheres have demonstrated efficacy in various therapeutic areas, including cancer treatment, infectious diseases, and chronic conditions. Their ability to target specific organs, such as the lungs, brain, colon, eyes, and liver, through ligand-receptor interactions or passive targeting, enhances treatment outcomes while minimizing systemic toxicity. Moreover, the encapsulation of drugs within microspheres improves their stability and bioavailability, leading to enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects. The integration of microspheres into drug delivery systems (DDS) also improves cost-effectiveness and patient outcomes through precise and efficient drug delivery. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the production techniques, such as spray drying and membrane emulsification, and highlights the significance of microspheres in biomedical applications, including targeted drug delivery and tissue engineering. The advancements in microsphere-based DDS hold substantial implications for personalized medicine and the treatment of various diseases.