Metal–Organic Framework Composites for Theragnostics and Drug Delivery Applications

• Published in: Biotechnology journal 2021-02, Vol.16 (2), p.e2000005-n/a
• Main Authors: Osterrieth, Johannes W. M., Fairen‐Jimenez, David
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: cancer therapeutics; Drug Delivery Systems; Metal-Organic Frameworks - chemistry; metal–organic framework composites; nanomedicine; Nanoparticles; Pharmaceutical Preparations; Polymers; targeted drug delivery; theragnostic metal–organic frameworks
• ISSN: 1860-6768; 1860-7314
• DOI: 10.1002/biot.202000005

Among a plethora of nano‐sized therapeutics, metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have been some of the most investigated novel materials for, predominantly, cancer drug delivery applications. Due to their large drug uptake capacities and slow‐release mechanisms, MOFs are desirable drug delivery vehicles that protect and transport sensitive drug molecules to target sites. The inclusion of other guest materials into MOFs to make MOF‐composite materials has added further functionality, from externally triggered drug release to improved pharmacokinetics and diagnostic aids. MOF‐composites are synthetically versatile and can include examples such as magnetic nanoparticles in MOFs for MRI image contrast and polymer coatings that improve the blood‐circulation time. From synthesis to applications, this review will consider the main developments in MOF‐composite chemistry for biomedical applications and demonstrate the potential of these novel agents in nanomedicine. It is concluded that, although vast synthetic progress has been made in the field, it requires now to develop more biomedical expertise with a focus on rational model selection, a major comparative toxicity study, and advanced targeting techniques. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are polymeric coordination networks that have recently proposed for drug‐delivery applications. The inclusion of guest materials into MOFs to make MOF‐composites adds further functionality to both diagnostics and therapeutic action. From synthesis to applications, this review considers the main developments in MOF‐composite chemistry and its contribution to the next generation of theragnostic nanomedicine.