Drug encapsulation

Drug encapsulation is a pharmaceutical technology and formulation strategy rather than a biological molecule, receptor, or therapeutic target. It involves the process of enclosing an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) within a protective carrier system, such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, micelles, or microcapsules, to optimize its delivery and efficacy (PMID: 27013745). The primary purpose of encapsulation is to shield the drug from premature degradation in the systemic circulation, increase the solubility of hydrophobic compounds, and facilitate targeted delivery to specific tissues or cells, such as tumor environments. By modulating the pharmacokinetic and biodistribution profiles of a drug, encapsulation can significantly reduce off-target toxicity and improve patient outcomes. While not a target itself, this methodology is critical in the development of advanced therapeutics for cancer, infectious diseases, and inflammatory disorders. Examples of successful clinical applications include liposomal formulations of doxorubicin and nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel, which demonstrate enhanced safety profiles compared to their conventional counterparts (PMID: 32214181).

Other names

NanoencapsulationMicroencapsulationDrug delivery systemControlled release systemLiposomal formulation

Drug encapsulation functions as a drug delivery vehicle that protects the active pharmaceutical ingredient from degradation, enhances solubility, and provides controlled or targeted release to improve the therapeutic index (PMID: 33435131).