Recombinant Protein-Based Drug Delivery Systems

In recent years, recombinant proteins have emerged as powerful and versatile tools in the development of smart drug delivery systems, offering high specificity, modularity, and biological functionality. These engineered biomolecules can be precisely designed and produced using genetic and protein engineering approaches to meet diverse therapeutic needs, including controlled release, targeted delivery, and multifunctional activity. Their ability to interact selectively with disease markers, self-assemble into nanostructures, and respond to specific biological stimuli such as pH, temperature, or enzymatic activity positions them at the forefront of next-generation biomedical technologies. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the types of recombinant proteins used in drug delivery, including self-assembling polypeptides, monoclonal antibodies, protein-based carriers, and biologically active signaling molecules. We explore the underlying mechanisms of action, such as receptor-mediated targeting, endosomal escape, and stimuli-responsive release. The article also discusses advanced bioengineering strategies for protein design, structural optimization, and site-specific conjugation, supported by recent developments in computational modeling and synthetic biology. Moreover, we highlight key clinical and preclinical applications, with examples ranging from FDA-approved antibody–drug conjugates to emerging protein nanocarriers in oncology, neurology, and regenerative medicine. Finally, the challenges related to stability, immunogenicity, manufacturing, and regulatory hurdles are critically examined, along with future perspectives on integrating artificial intelligence, hybrid materials, and gene-editing tools in the field. Recombinant protein-based delivery platforms hold tremendous promise for enhancing therapeutic precision, efficacy, and safety across a wide range of diseases, and are poised to become foundational elements of personalized medicine.

کلیدواژه ها:

recombinant proteins ، drug delivery systems ، antibody-drug conjugates ، protein engineering