Nano-Drug Carriers: A Potential Approach towards Drug Delivery Methods

Sattar, R; Shahzad, F; Ishaq, T; Mukhtar, R; Naz, A

Abstract

Drugs are directly connected to the approaches by which they are administered and their delivery affects cellular uptake, biodistribution, toxicity, and excretion. Drug delivery methods are also necessary to be modified with the development of new therapeutic agents. This review summarizes the information about advancements in the field of drug delivery and mechanisms of drug action followed by factors affecting biocompatibility. Graphene, graphene oxide, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), iron oxide nanoparticles, polyethylene glycol ligands and gold nanoparticles are prominent advancements in the field of drug delivery. These nanocarriers are engulfed by the cells through endocytosis followed by intracellular trafficking to reach the cytoplasm and their biocompatibility can be affected by various physicochemical parameters like surface charge, size, and shape. This review article may prove essential for the modification of drug delivery methods with the development of new therapeutic agents to eliminate the hurdles in near future.

Keywords: Biocompatibility; drug delivery; drug design; physicochemical parameters; nanocarriers

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Nanodrug delivery methods have multiple potential pathways, providing innovative solutions for effective treatment. First, through the blood circulation pathway, nanomedicine carriers can be guided to diseased tissues through intravenous injection and other methods to achieve systemic treatment. Secondly, through local injection, nanomedicine carriers can be directly delivered to specific sites, reducing the concentration of drugs in the systemic circulation and mitigating side effects. Another potential route is through the lymphatic system, where nanodrug carriers can be taken up and delivered to sites such as lymph nodes, making them suitable for treating diseases involving the lymphatic system. In addition, through the transdermal route, nanomedicine carriers can deliver drugs directly through the skin, which is suitable for the treatment of local skin lesions. More innovative routes include the oral route, where nanodrug carriers can be delivered into the gastrointestinal tract through the oral cavity to improve bioavailability. In addition, nanomedicine carriers can also be used to treat respiratory system-related diseases through the respiratory system. These potential pathways demonstrate the diversity and flexibility of nanodrug carriers in drug delivery, providing broad space for the development of personalized treatment and precision medicine.