Dendrimers are globular structures, presenting an initiator core, repetitive layers
starting radially from the core and terminal groups on the surface, resembling tree
architecture. These structures have been studied in many biological applications,
as drug, DNA, RNA and proteins delivery, as well as imaging and radiocontrast agents.
With reference to that, this review focused in providing examples of dendrimers used
in nanomedicine. Although most studies emphasize cancer, there are others which reveal
action in the neurosystem, reducing either neuroinflammation or protein aggregation.
Dendrimers can carry bioactive compounds by covalent bond (dendrimer prodrug), or
by ionic interaction or adsortion in the internal space of the nanostructure. Additionally,
dendrimers can be associated with other polymers, as PEG (polyethylene glycol), and
with targeting structures as aptamers, antibodies, folic acid and carbohydrates. Their
products in preclinical/clinical trial and those in the market are also discussed,
with a total of six derivatives in clinical trials and seven products available in
the market.