Importance of Molecularly Imprinted Polymers as Artificial Antibodies in Drug Delivery and Tissue Engineering

In recent years, significant progress has been made in the fields of tissue engineering and drug delivery, driven by the goal of enhancing therapeutic outcomes and addressing various medical challenges. Among the most promising technologies in these areas are Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIPs). Since their initial proposal five decades ago, MIPs have undergone substantial advancements in both applications and synthesis processes. These sophisticated materials are created using a synthetic technique known as molecular imprinting, which enables the production of durable materials with predetermined molecular selectivity. Often referred to as "artificial antibodies," MIPs possess unique properties that make them suitable for various applications, especially in tissue engineering and targeted drug delivery.One of the key attributes of MIPs is their adaptability, which allows them to respond to diverse environmental conditions and selectively bind to specific molecular targets. This capability enables precise adjustments in molecular binding and controlled release, facilitating the process of affinity separation. While MIPs have been successfully imprinted with various substances, imprinting cells has posed significant challenges. Early research primarily focused on microprinting techniques, but recent advancements have shifted toward epitope imprinting to develop MIP nanoparticles (NPs). Additionally, the challenges encountered in MIP manufacture have been addressed through innovative techniques such as solid-phase MIP synthesis. The current study highlights the crucial developments in the creation and utilization of MIPs, which are capable of specifically recognizing physiologically active substances. The design of these highly effective and template-specific MIPs is explored, with a particular focus on the imprinting of complex macromolecular and supramolecular templates. This showcases the versatility and precision of these synthetic materials. In the fields of chemistry and molecular biology, considerable attention is given to the current and potential applications of MIPs. These promising uses include advanced imaging techniques, targeted drug delivery, diagnostics, and tissue engineering, where MIPs demonstrate immense potential. In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive overview of various cell imprinting techniques, emphasizing the significance of MIPs in advancing tissue engineering and drug delivery. As research in this area continues to evolve, MIPs remain at the forefront of innovative technologies, with the potential to revolutionize the medical field and improve patient outcomes globally.