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Mechanopharmacology: In Vitro Techniques to Advance Drug Discovery
  • +2
  • Jana Zielinski,
  • Chiao Hwei Lee,
  • Avanka Gunatilaka,
  • Bryan Gao,
  • Alastair Stewart
Jana Zielinski
University of Melbourne
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Chiao Hwei Lee
University of Melbourne
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Avanka Gunatilaka
University of Melbourne
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Bryan Gao
University of Melbourne
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Alastair Stewart
University of Melbourne

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Abstract

Mechanopharmacology is an emerging interdisciplinary field that investigates drug action using biomechanically appropriate in vitro systems to the relevant (patho)physiology. This review outlines emerging technologies and techniques which aim to bridge the gap between mechanical cues influencing cellular biology and conventional pharmacology. We delve into the impact of mechanopharmacology on drug development in cancers and fibrotic diseases. Mechanical cues such as stretch, stiffness, circadian rhythms, fluid flow, intercellular signalling cascades and cytoskeletal structures can modulate drug interactions with molecular targets with implications for drug discovery and development. Models incorporating mechanopharmacological cues to investigate pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and therapeutic outcomes are outlined. Furthermore, this review discusses innovations in the use of biomaterials and microfluidics, to enable further the emulation of the mechanical microenvironment. We advocate for the application of mechanopharmacological considerations to improve the physiological relevance of methods used in the drug discovery pipeline.
02 Apr 2024Submitted to British Journal of Pharmacology
14 Apr 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned
10 Jun 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
13 Jun 2024Editorial Decision: Revise Minor
09 Jul 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned
19 Jul 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
26 Jul 2024Editorial Decision: Accept