Recent advances in the ultrasound-mediated drug delivery systems

Abstract

Ultrasound-controlled drug delivery systems have emerged as a new method in the field of targeted drug delivery and gene transfer. Under ultrasound radiation, drug-loaded or gene transfer depots made of ultrasound-sensitive materials, are able to release genes or drugs on-demand, thus improving temporospatial control in drug delivery and gene transfection efficiency. This article reviews the recent advances in ultrasound-controlled drug delivery systems including the mechanism of ultrasound-mediated drug delivery, ultrasound-sensitive drug- and/or gene-loaded carriers, and biomedical applications. Finally, the existing problems and future trends in this niche area are discussed as well.