Mechanisms and prospects of piezoelectric materials as smart delivery vehicles in cancer treatment

Drug Discov Today. 2024 Feb;29(2):103862. doi: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103862. Epub 2023 Dec 18.

Abstract

Piezoelectric materials, capable of converting mechanical energy into electrical energy and vice versa, have emerged as promising candidates for designing intelligent drug delivery vehicles. Leveraging their inherent electrical properties, these materials respond to external stimuli, such as mechanical forces and electrical signals, to control drug release. By integrating piezoelectric materials into drug delivery systems, we can achieve exacting control over drug-release mechanisms. Piezoelectric materials hold enormous promise as smart delivery vehicles in cancer treatment, responding to mechanical and electrical cues, enabling site-specific drug release, reducing systemic toxicity and enhancing therapeutic effectiveness. Further advancements in the field are expected to lead to innovative piezoelectric-based systems that can revolutionize cancer treatment strategies, as explored in this review article.

Keywords: cancer; drug delivery; ferroelectric materials; nanocarrier; piezoelectric materials; polarization; pyroelectric materials.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Drug Delivery Systems*
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy