Advances in Neutrophil Cell Membrane-coated Nano Drug Delivery Systems: A Comprehensive Review

Cell-mediated drug delivery systems have gained significant attention in medical research due to their potential for enhanced therapeutic specificity and efficacy in various diseases. Among immune cells, neutrophils (NEs) have emerged as a promising candidate for drug delivery due to their prevalence and rapid response at inflammatory sites. However, the short lifespan and challenges associated with the in vitro cultivation of NEs have hindered their direct use for drug administration. This review aims to highlight the importance of NEs as effective drug-delivery vehicles and elucidate the underlying mechanisms contributing to their pharmacological efficacy. By analyzing recent studies and advancements in the field, we will discuss the strategies employed to harness NEs as drug carriers, including coating nanostructures with NE cell membranes. In addition, we will investigate the distinctive characteristics of NEs that allow for targeted drug delivery. These properties include the NE's capacity to navigate intricate biological environments and actively move towards inflamed tissues. Moreover, we will examine the mechanisms by which NEs release drugs and explore their potential applications in different therapeutic fields.