Polymer-based bioconjugation: engineering biomolecules and nanocarriers for advanced applications

Bioconjugation, a unique approach, is commonly used to enhance the biopharmaceutical properties of a bioactive while also allowing for its spatial and temporal distribution. The technique opens up new possibilities for delivering peptides, lipids, oligonucleotides, and enzymes are also included in bioconjugate. Site-specific delivery can be accomplished through converting the conjugates into inactive prodrugs and forming polymer drug combination that are prone to cleavage by specific pH or enzymes. Such prodrugs have a significant impact on cellular entry mechanisms, pharmacokinetic disposition, and drug targeting. The conjugated carriers are used to deliver medicinal medications to visceral organs like the brain and intestines. Such biomaterials are offering novel drug delivery systems that can precisely and appropriately carry drugs to the target organs. Noteworthy, the significant advancements in bioconjugated nanoparticles for biosensing and bioimaging include cell labeling, DNA identification, separation, recombination, and applications in DNA protection. Only in recent times these tailor-made polymers acquired traction for various therapies with minimal side effects. The current analysis comprehensively examines polymer bioconjugates and their implications toward selective distribution. This review examines the medicinal properties associated with these conjugates, which could serve as exciting drug delivery vehicles.