Photocleavable linkers

Abstract

One of the primary benefits offered by a nanoscale conjugate in targeted delivery involves its design capability for controlling payload release in a precise manner. Access to such release capability leads to an important route for controlling its biological activity temporally and selectively in targeted cells or tissues. Applying a photocleavable linker in drug conjugation serves as an effective strategy for actively controlling such payload release using a light stimulus. This chapter presents various linker structures and drug linkage methods commonly used in drug delivery systems with a focus on photocleavable linkers. It describes the mechanistic aspects of photo linker cleavage related to payload release. It provides a comprehensive survey of their design principles and practical applications pertinent to light-controlled drug delivery.