Encapsulated therapeutic agents

"Encapsulated therapeutic agents" are drugs or biologically active substances that are enclosed within carrier systems such as liposomes, nanoparticles, polymeric matrices, or semipermeable membranes for the purpose of protecting the drug from degradation, allowing for controlled or targeted release, enhancing bioavailability, or reducing adverse effects[1][2][3][6]. Encapsulation is a formulation strategy that has substantially advanced the delivery of small molecules, biologics (proteins, peptides, nucleic acids), and even living cells, with applications in the treatment of a wide variety of diseases including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, infections, and retinal diseases. The encapsulated agent itself is not a target but a payload, while the carrier system serves as the delivery mechanism. This approach also underpins specialized therapies such as encapsulated cell therapy, where living cells are encapsulated to deliver therapeutic proteins in a controlled fashion[4][5].

Other names

Encapsulated drugsEncapsulated agentsEncapsulated therapeuticsDrug delivery system

Not applicable; encapsulation is a delivery mechanism. Drugs encapsulated retain their original MOA, but the delivery can lead to: Controlled release, Targeted tissue accumulation, Reduced degradation/metabolism