Advances in nanoparticles in targeted drug delivery–A review

Nanoparticles have transformed contemporary medicine by improving bioavailability, targeting, and drug release mechanisms. Traditional drug delivery methods typically exhibit minimal therapeutic efficacy due to rapid elimination, inadequate solubility, and systemic toxicity. The distinctive physicochemical characteristics of nanoparticles provide targeted drug distribution to specific areas, reducing harmful consequences. The several kinds of nanoparticles extensively researched for their potential applications in drug delivery encompass polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), dendrimers, and metallic nanoparticles. These carriers enhance therapeutic efficacy via passive and active targeted methodologies, encompassing ligand-based functionalisation and the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. Given that traditional chemotherapy frequently results in significant adverse effects and inadequate drug accumulation at tumor sites, a paramount application of nanoparticles is the targeted delivery of anticancer agents. Nanocarriers optimise therapeutic efficacy by controlled release, enhanced drug stability, and targeted delivery to tumors with reduced toxicity. Photosensitizer-encapsulated nanoparticles are innovative in photodynamic therapy due to enhanced drug retention and specificity within tumor tissues. Nanoparticles to deliver nucleic acids and proteins have been investigated to surmount biological barriers and enhance cellular uptake in gene therapy, RNA interference, and protein-based therapeutics. Notwithstanding these advancements, challenges remain: mass production, regulatory frameworks, potential cytotoxicity, and interactions with the immune system. The specific biological barriers, such as the blood-brain barrier and mucosal layers, significantly hinder the efficient administration of medications using nanoparticles. To overcome these restrictions, research is being conducted to create biodegradable, biocompatible, and stimulus-responsive nanoparticles. The future will provide tailored nanomedicine, artificial intelligence, and real-time imaging to enhance pharmaceutical compositions and treatment strategies. This review examines emerging frontiers, medical applications, and developmental trends of nanoparticles in drug delivery. This work novelty contributes to the increasing importance of research on enhancing medication delivery systems for improved patient outcomes via nanotechnology, including the new drug delivery mechanism, precision and targeting, biocompatibility, and multifunctional nanoparticles for addressing current problems and potential.