Cyclodextrin-based carriers for targeted drug delivery

INTRODUCTION: Cyclodextrin-based drug delivery systems provide a robust platform for designing targeted nanocarriers that efficiently encapsulate, stabilize, and deliver poorly soluble drugs to specific sites. Their unique ability to form host - guest complexes and construct supramolecular networks adorned with tailored ligands allows precise targeting of diseased areas, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic side effects. AREAS COVERED: This review provides an overview of recent advances in cyclodextrin-based carriers for targeted drug delivery. It examines a wide array of ligand-functionalized systems, from conjugates and assemblies to branched polymers and nanosponges, organized according to their target organs, including the brain, eyes, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, liver, and breast. The discussion is grounded in an extensive literature search, highlighting strategies such as the incorporation of active targeting ligands, stimuli-responsive release mechanisms, and dual-function theragnostic platforms. EXPERT OPINION: Although cyclodextrin-based systems have demonstrated promising improvements in drug solubility, stability, and target specificity, challenges remain with regard to overcoming biological barriers and minimizing off-target effects. The authors believe that continued optimization of carrier design, combined with advances in targeting and stimuli-responsive technologies, will be crucial for translating these innovative systems into effective clinical therapies.