NanopartikelDelivery

NanopartikelDelivery refers to the design, assessment, and implementation of nanoparticle-based systems to transport therapeutic or diagnostic agents to specific sites in the body. The field encompasses a range of nanoparticle classes, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, inorganic particles, and hybrid constructs, as well as strategies for surface modification and cargo loading.

Delivery approaches include passive targeting exploiting the enhanced permeation and retention effect, and active targeting using ligands such as antibodies, peptides, or small molecules. Controlled release can be engineered through material properties, stimuli-responsive linkages, or degradable matrices. Biodistribution and clearance are critical considerations, with the reticuloendothelial system frequently sequestering particles in the liver and spleen.

Applications encompass oncology, vaccines, gene therapy, and imaging agents. Theranostics combine diagnostic and therapeutic functions within a single particle, enabling simultaneous visualization and treatment.

Advantages of nanoparticle delivery include improved targeting and reduced systemic toxicity, the ability to co-deliver multiple agents, and enhanced pharmacokinetics. These features may enable dose sparing and combination therapies.

Challenges remain, including safety and immunogenicity, potential long-term toxicity, manufacturing scale and quality control, batch-to-batch reproducibility, stability in biological fluids, and navigating regulatory approvals. Ongoing research addresses translational gaps, standardized characterization, and robust preclinical models to better predict clinical performance.

See also: drug delivery, nanomedicine, liposomes, targeted therapy.