Impact of physiochemical properties on pharmacokinetics of protein therapeutics

Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet. 2013 Dec;38(4):231-9. doi: 10.1007/s13318-013-0126-0. Epub 2013 Apr 14.

Abstract

Physicochemical properties, such as molecular weight, size, partition coefficient, acid dissociation constant and solubility have a great impact on pharmacokinetics of traditional small molecule drugs and substantially used in development of small drugs. However, predicting pharmacokinetic fate (absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination) of protein therapeutics from their physicochemical parameters is extremely difficult due to the macromolecular nature of therapeutic proteins and peptides. Their structural complexity and immunogenicity are other contributing factors that determine their biological fate. Therefore, to develop generalized strategies concerning development of therapeutic proteins and peptides are highly challenging. However, reviewing the literature, authors found that physiochemical properties, such as molecular weight, charge and structural modification are having great impact on pharmacokinetics of protein therapeutics and an attempt is made to provide the major findings in this manuscript. This manuscript will serve to provide some bases for developing protein therapeutics with desired pharmacokinetic profile.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Absorption
  • Molecular Weight
  • Proteins / chemistry*
  • Proteins / pharmacokinetics
  • Proteins / therapeutic use*
  • Tissue Distribution

Substances

  • Proteins