Target-specific recognition moiety

HDLs tend to accumulate in the parenchymal fiver cells and target specific recognition moieties such as galactose can enhance the hepatocyte uptake process. This system is being investigated for the targeting of hydrophobic antiviral prodrugs to parenchymal fiver cells in viral hepatitis. 

An interesting case of dendrimers synthesis has also been reported by Yoon et al. (2007). The selective monofunctionalization of dendrimers with biologically specific targeting and recognition moieties should allow transportation of the dendrimer to the biological targets of interest. 

Fig. 9 Utility of de-PEGylation technology in liposomes, (a) PEG derivative possessing a lipid moiety. The covalent bond between PEG and the lipid moiety can be cleaved by stimuli such as those within the acid environment of cancer and inflammation, (b) After binding the target cell via specific recognition of the receptor by the ligand, PEG molecules on the surface of the liposome are cleaved. The release of PEG facilitates membrane fusion of the liposome and liposome decomposition, resulting in efficient drug delivery...

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