A review on targeted drug delivery through macrophages

Abstract

Macrophages are present in many tissues of the body which includes lymphohematopoietic organs, skin, gut, and
nervous system. They are found in blood and extra-vascular system and undergo migrations. They are produced
mainly from the bone marrow. The macrophages produced in the body enter the tissues and perform the functions
like homeostasis. When an injury or infection occurs, these macrophages along with monocytes accumulate on the
infection site and perform the defense mechanism thereby produce the immunity with the help of other cells and
humoral product. Utilizing the macrophages as delivery system appears to have great importance in improving the
therapeutic efficacy of the enclosed drug. The drug diffuses through different membranes and releases at the site
of infection. This review discusses the advantages of targeted drug delivery through macrophages, drug loading
methods, and its applications.