Biological evaluation of dendrimers based on melamine

The synthetic strategies used to prepare dendrimers based on melamine are reviewed. The ability to control the number and positions of functional groups within third generation dendrimers has been established. Strategies for post-synthetic modification of peripheral groups and the biological consequences of such modifications in vitro and in vivo are described. The results of all biological inquiries of these systems to date (August 2004) are presented including studies of cytotoxicity, antigenicity, hemolytic potential, acute and subchronic toxicity and the reduction of drug toxicity.