| abstract |
Nanoparticle compositions and methods are disclosed for the sustained release of small molecules, such as pharmaceutical compounds in vivo, for example ligand-lytic peptide conjugates. The construction of the nanoparticles helps to prevent self- aggregation of the molecules, and the consequent loss of effectiveness. The system employs layer-by-layer self-assembly of biocompatible polyelectrolyte layers, and layers of charged small molecules such as drug molecules, to form a multilayer nanoparticle in which the drug or other small molecule itself acts as one of the alternating charged layers in the multilayer assembly. The small molecules can then be released over time in a sustained manner. The LbL nano-assemblies can specifically target cancers, metastases, or other diseased tissues, while minimizing side effects. |