Dendrimers: from the art of building precise molecules to the dissemination through the world

Abstract

Dendrimers: from the art of building precise molecules to the dissemination through the worldThe word dendrimer comes from the Greek (dendron = tree) and represents new molecular systems, which become more branched at each successive connection. These compounds are designed by a central core, repeated branches from the core, (which characterize the generations), and surface groups. The synthesis is performed step by step, obtaining structures perfectly controlled, precise and symmetric. Moreover, dendrimers are extremely branched, monodisperse, possess nanoscopic size and large number of peripheral functionality.

Recent therapeutic applications of the theranostic principle with dendrimers in oncology

“…In general, bench-tobedside translation of nanoparticles and dendrimers in particular, remains an important challenge. Indeed, to date, few dendrimers are in the clinical phase for systemic administration (vide supra), despite the fact that dendrimers are the focus of a large number of research publications, with approximately 2500 between 2006 and 2013 [90,91]. In addition, specifically regarding the use of dendrimers as MRI agents, McMahon and Bulte [14] have highlighted that over the last two decades, there has been an explosion of studies in MRI theranostics with over 400 papers published and 2800 citations a year (2013-2016).…”