Nanotechnology in drug delivery systems
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Nanotechnology-Driven Drug Delivery Systems: Key Concepts and Mechanisms
Nanotechnology has transformed drug delivery by enabling the use of nanoscale materials—such as nanoparticles, liposomes, dendrimers, and polymeric micelles—to improve how drugs are transported and released in the body. These nanocarriers can be engineered for targeted drug delivery, controlled release, and enhanced solubility, which leads to better therapeutic outcomes and fewer side effects compared to traditional drug delivery methods 1247.
Targeted Drug Delivery and Enhanced Efficacy
A major advantage of nanotechnology in drug delivery is its ability to direct drugs specifically to diseased tissues or cells. Nanoparticles can be designed to navigate biological barriers and accumulate at target sites using both passive mechanisms, like the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, and active targeting, where ligands on the nanoparticle surface bind to specific cell receptors. This targeted approach is especially valuable in cancer therapy, as it minimizes damage to healthy tissues and reduces the toxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs 1247.
Improved Solubility, Bioavailability, and Controlled Release
Nanocarriers can encapsulate drugs that are poorly soluble in water, significantly improving their absorption and bioavailability. Systems such as nanosuspensions, nanoemulsions, and nanocrystals increase the solubility and dissolution rate of these drugs, leading to more effective treatments. Additionally, nanotechnology allows for controlled and sustained drug release, which can extend the duration of therapeutic action and reduce the frequency of dosing 234610.
Versatile Nanomaterials and Delivery Platforms
A wide range of nanomaterials are used in drug delivery, including lipid-based, polymeric, inorganic, and ceramic nanoparticles. Each type offers unique benefits: for example, bioadhesive polymers can enhance drug absorption through mucosal tissues, while nanoceramics provide platforms for long-term, controlled drug release. DNA nanotechnology is also emerging as a promising approach, allowing for the precise design of nanostructures that can carry and release drugs with high specificity 379.
Applications Across Diseases
Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems are being applied to treat a variety of diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes, tuberculosis, and more. These systems have shown the ability to improve therapeutic efficacy, reduce side effects, and enhance patient compliance across different medical conditions 1456.
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite the significant progress, challenges remain in the clinical translation of nanotechnology-based drug delivery. Issues such as toxicity, biological complexity, regulatory approval, and scalability of production need to be addressed. Ongoing research is focused on improving the safety and effectiveness of these systems, as well as integrating nanotechnology with other advanced fields to develop even more sophisticated drug delivery platforms 1457.
Conclusion
Nanotechnology has revolutionized drug delivery by enabling targeted, controlled, and efficient transport of therapeutic agents. While challenges persist, the continued development of nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems holds great promise for personalized medicine and improved health outcomes in the future 1247.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic