Dendritic polyglycerol

Dendritic polyglycerols are synthesized carrier molecules to which different kinds of labels (dyes, radiolabeling) and/or therapeutics (antiviral, anticancer, anti-inflammatory agents) can be attached because of the molecules “treelike” (i.e. dendritic) structure.  In this piece biochemists at the Helmholtz Center in Dresden, Germany describe a dendritic polyglycerol that has affinity for the epidermal growth factor receptor on tumor cells.  Through that target, the researchers can deliver imaging agents and anticancer drugs to the specific cells of interest.  These nanoparticles are 3 nm in size.  MORE

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