Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 27, 2026

Manufacture and Drug Delivery Applications of Silk Nanoparticles
Published on: October 8, 2016
Toxicological considerations when creating nanoparticle-based drugs and drug delivery systems
Arati Sharma1, SubbaRao V Madhunapantula, Gavin P Robertson
1The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, R130, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
Novel nanoparticles offer promise for targeted cancer drug delivery, but their inherent toxicity requires careful consideration. Standardized methods for assessing nanoparticle toxicity are crucial for safe human application.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Drug Delivery
- Toxicology
Background:
- Drug development faces challenges in delivering safe and effective dosages without systemic toxicity.
- Novel nano-based delivery vehicles targeting tumors are needed to overcome these limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the toxicological aspects of nanoparticles for drug delivery and imaging.
- To examine challenges and current approaches in assessing nanoparticle toxicity.
Main Methods:
- Overview of nanoparticle applications in drug delivery and imaging.
- Discussion of toxicological considerations for nanoparticle selection.
- Analysis of hurdles in nanoparticle toxicity assessment.
- Review of current methods for evaluating nanoparticle toxicity.
Main Results:
- Nanoparticles offer benefits but can possess inherent toxicity.
- Selecting appropriate nanoparticles requires careful toxicological evaluation.
- Assessing nanoparticle toxicity presents significant challenges.
Conclusions:
- Nanotechnology holds potential for cancer therapeutics and imaging but carries risks of toxicity.
- Toxicity must be a primary consideration in nanoparticle selection for specific applications.
- Standardized and improved methods for assessing nanoparticle toxicity are essential for clinical translation.
Related Concept Videos
Drug Toxicity: Dose-Dependent Reactions
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Site-Targeted
Biopharmaceutical Factors Influencing Drug Product Design: Overview
Toxicokinetics: Overview
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Influencing Factors
Site-Targeted Drug Delivery Systems: Polymeric Carriers
