Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Vajdy and O'Hagan [178] reported that after nasal administration of DNA plasmids,
the level of plasmid in the brain was 3.9-4.8 times higher than the plasmid concen-
tration in the lungs and spleen [179]. The higher distribution of plasmid to the brain
after intranasal administration indicates that nasal administration might be a promising
route for the delivery of therapeutic genes to the brain, with reduced side effects in the
other organs. The effect of intranasally administered nonapeptide delta sleep-induc-
ing peptide (DSIP) in reducing physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms in
opioid-dependent subjects [180] was studied. It was found that nasally administered
DSIP was shown to increase P300, which is a sensitive neuropharmacological index
and may be used for opioid withdrawal.
9.5.10.2 For Immunization
Most current immunization procedures make use of needles and syringes for vaccine
administration; thus health organizations are beginning to look for safer alternatives
that reduce the risk of cross-contamination that arises from needle reuse. Developments
in needle-free methods of immunization, such as liquid-jet injectors, topical applica-
tion to the skin, oral pills, and nasal sprays [181], open new horizons in immunization.
Mucosal vaccine delivery is a promising strategy, particularly because administra-
tion of immunogenic formulations through mucosal (intranasal, oral, intravaginal, or
intrarectal) routes is likely the best approach of inducing immune responses in both
systemic and mucosal immune compartments. Previous studies have shown that
immunization is an effective means for the induction of serum and mucosal antigen-
specific antibodies. Nasal vaccination is a promising alternative to classical paren-
tal vaccination. However, the protective efficacy of nasally administered antigens is
often impaired because free antigens are readily cleared from the nasal cavity, poorly
absorbed by the nasal epithelial cells, and generally have low intrinsic immunogenic-
ity. According to current insights, encapsulation of the antigen into bioadhesive (nano)
particles is a promising approach toward successful nasal vaccine delivery. These
antigen-loaded particles can be tailored by supplying them with targeting ligands,
adjuvants, or endosomal escape mediators to form the desired vaccine that provides
long-lasting protective immunity [182].
9.6 Delivery of Proteins and Peptides by Inhalation
9.6.1 Localized Delivery of Peptides and Proteins
Peptide and protein drugs are intended for the treatment of local airway diseases,
especially those under the category of inflammatory conditions usually involving
bronchospastic, vasoactive, or immune responses in the airways.
9.6.1.1 Cyclosporine A
Cyclosporine A (CsA) has been suggested as a drug of choice for the treatment of
heart-lung transplant rejection. It is particularly potent in suppressing T-lymphocyte
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