Polymer-Based Carriers for Targeting Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system is a crucial part of the immune system, responsible for surveillance and response to immune challenges. It is a parallel vascular network that lacks a central driving force, consisting of interconnected conduits such as capillaries, collecting vessels, nodes, trunks, and ducts. Polymer-based carriers are emerging as effective tools for targeted drug delivery to the lymphatic system. These particles, categorized as natural or synthetic polymers, have been used to carry various drugs and have shown potential for lymphatic targeting. Natural polymers like dextran, alginate, chitosan, gelatin, pullulan, and hyaluronan have been used to create drug delivery systems. Synthetic polymers like PLGA, PLA, and PMMA have also been used to create biodegradable nanospheres for drug delivery. These polymeric particles have been shown to localize primarily in lymph nodes, offering site-specific action, lowered doses, and minimized side effects. This chapter contains innovative polymeric particles derived from natural or synthetic sources showcasing their potential to achieve targeted and sustained drug release for lymphatic targeting.