ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the mechanisms by which particulates are taken up into, and distributed through, the lymphatic system after local injection. It considers the effects of the physicochemical properties of the particulate on these processes. The chapter presents a critical review of the particulate delivery systems which have so far been used for parenteral lymphatic targeting. The lymphatic vessels are adapted for the absorption of large macromolecules and particulates, so it is highly likely that particulates taken up across the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) will gain access to the local lymphatics. Experimental evidence has accumulated to indicate that particulates can be taken up across an intact GIT. A new lymphatic drug delivery system for injection into tissues has been investigated, comprising various anticancer drugs adsorbed to colloidal carbon particles of 200 nm or less. Colloidal carbon systems therefore appear to show promise as lymphatic drug delivery systems, and have been reviewed in more detail elsewhere.
