Polymersomes for theranostics

Abstract

In spite of the clear potential of personalized medicine, its pace of implementation has not yet fulfilled initial hopes. Polymeric vesicles, also named polymersomes, are presented as versatile systems able to address issues of efficacy, specificity and controlled release of drugs in a wide range of pathological scenarios that might show the way to novel therapies. Extensive work has endowed these biomimetic structures with the ability to overcome the body's natural defences, remain stable for an extended time in circulation, tuneable membrane properties for controlled drug release, and the ability to be functionalized for active targeting and therefore reducing undesirable side effects. Additionally, this unique platform has the ability to integrate both drug delivery and medical imaging capabilities, widening the perspectives towards theranostics. Polymersomes hold promise for more effective treatments with both fewer side effects and superior outcomes.