Erythrocytes for Drug Delivery and their Applications: A Review

Abstract

Recent advances have witnessed the emergence of an increasing number of novel carriers for the delivery of drugs. In this manuscript, we review and discuss the blood cellular carriers because of their great biocompatibility and thus a reduction in side effects. Our emphasis was on the erythrocyte because recent studies have indicated that it possesses the greatest potential in this regard. The different sources of erythrocytes in drug delivery include the blood of humans, dogs, rabbits, rats and mice. Encapsulation in erythrocytes drastically changes the pharmacokinetic properties of drugs in both animals and humans, enhancing liver and spleen uptake and targeting the reticulo-endothelial system (RES). This article gives a general overview of the advantages and disadvantages of this drug delivery system as well as a brief summary of methods involved in loading a drug unto erythrocytes as well as its application. The rationale is discussed for the possible use of these drugs, entrapped in erythrocytes, for the production of RES blockade in the treatment of animal disorders.

Keywords: blood cells, erythrocytes, drug delivery