Structural and Functional Mechanisms of Human Serum Albumin in Drug Binding and Transport: Implications for Albumin-Based Nanocarrier Design - A Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE: Albumin is a widely used nanoparticle drug delivery system due to its biocompatibility, stability, and inherent targeting capabilities. The aim of this systematic review is to highlight the structural and functional role of albumin in drug binding, stability, and targeting, with particular emphasis on the therapeutic implications. METHODS: A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Relevant literature was screened based on predetermined criteria for inclusion and exclusion. Data were extracted and synthesized qualitatively. RESULTS: A total of 4,754 records were retrieved, and 76 studies were included in this review after the screening and assessment of their eligibility. The results showed that albumin plays a role in the stabilization of nanoparticles via steric and electrostatic interactions, improves the encapsulation efficiency of drugs, and increases the systemic circulation of nanoparticles. The targeting mechanisms of albumin, including the mechanisms of gp60-mediated transcytosis and SPARC-mediated tumor retention, have also been effective in the improvement of drug delivery and efficacy. DISCUSSION: From the results, it is evident that albumin plays a critical role in the improvement of nanoparticle formulations compared to synthetic stabilizers. CONCLUSION: From the results of this review, it is evident that albumin nanoparticles have a great future in the improvement of drug targeting and delivery.