Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026
09:03
Manufacture and Drug Delivery Applications of Silk Nanoparticles
Published on: October 8, 2016
Nanoparticles in drug delivery: past, present and future
1Université Paris-Sud, UMR CNRS, IFR-ITFM, Faculté de Pharmacie, Châtenay-Malabry, France. patrick.couvreur@u-psud.fr
Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews
|May 15, 2012
Summary
Nanoparticle research, starting in the 1970s, has advanced with biodegradable materials and surface functionalization for novel treatments. Challenges remain in bringing nanoparticle-based medicines to market, prompting exploration of new strategies.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Nanoparticles were first discovered in the 1970s.
- Advancements in biodegradable materials and nanoparticle surface functionalization have emerged.
- Significant progress has been made in developing nanoparticle-based treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the historical development of nanoparticles.
- To analyze the reasons behind the limited number of nanoparticle-based medicines in clinical trials or on the market.
- To identify novel approaches and future challenges in nanoparticle research and application.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and expert opinion synthesis.
- Historical analysis of nanoparticle discovery and development.
- Discussion of current challenges and future directions in nanomedicine.
Main Results:
- Nanoparticle research has evolved significantly since the 1970s.
- Biodegradable materials and surface functionalization are key enablers for new therapies.
- Several factors contribute to the slow translation of nanoparticle-based medicines into clinical practice.
Conclusions:
- Despite historical advancements, the clinical translation of nanoparticle-based therapies faces hurdles.
- New strategies are needed to overcome current limitations in nanomedicine development.
- Addressing future challenges is crucial for realizing the full potential of nanoparticles in medicine.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Site-Targeted Drug Delivery Systems: Polymeric Carriers
Polymeric carriers enhance targeted drug delivery by increasing efficacy while minimizing off-target effects. These carriers comprise a biodegradable polymeric backbone integrated with functional elements that enable targeting, improve physicochemical properties, and regulate drug release.Targeting MechanismsThe targeting ability of polymeric carriers is mediated by a homing device, which is a molecular recognition component designed to selectively bind to specific tissues or cells. Monoclonal...
01:16Drug Delivery: Overview
The selection of a drug's delivery route depends upon its physicochemical properties, including lipid or water solubility and ionization, as well as the therapeutic requirement, such as immediate or sustained effect. These routes can be divided into three primary categories: enteral, parenteral, and topical.
Enteral delivery involves administering drugs directly through swallowing, sublingual placement, or buccal application. Orally administered drugs predominantly navigate the gastrointestinal...
Enteral delivery involves administering drugs directly through swallowing, sublingual placement, or buccal application. Orally administered drugs predominantly navigate the gastrointestinal...
01:23Oral Drug Delivery Systems: Introduction
Oral drug delivery is the most common route of administration due to its convenience, cost-effectiveness, and high patient compliance. It enables precise formulation to ensure proper drug dosage and bioavailability. The development of oral dosage forms considers drug properties such as solubility, stability, and absorption to optimize therapeutic efficacy.Tablets, capsules, liquids, and chewable formulations enhance drug stability, mask undesirable tastes, and improve patient experience.
01:24Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Site-Targeted
Site-targeted drug delivery systems enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic toxicity and treatment costs. Unlike conventional methods, these systems ensure precise drug delivery, improving bioavailability and reducing side effects. Targeted drug delivery is classified into three levels. First-order targeting directs drugs to the capillary beds of specific organs or tissues. Second-order targets specific cell types, such as tumor cells, using receptor-mediated interactions.
01:27Drug Delivery Systems: Different Types
Conventional oral drug products, termed immediate-release (IR) formulations, are engineered to promptly release their active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) upon ingestion, typically in tablets or capsules. This rapid release often results in swift drug absorption and consequent pharmacodynamic effects, although the timing and intensity can vary depending on the drug's properties. Prodrugs within these formulations require metabolic conversion to activate their pharmacodynamic effects,...
01:19Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Overview
Modified-release dosage forms are designed to address the limitations of drugs with short biological half-lives. These forms maintain stable therapeutic drug concentrations over extended periods, reducing the need for frequent dosing. A consistent drug level helps minimize peak-trough fluctuations, which can reduce adverse effects, lower the risk of drug resistance, and improve overall treatment effectiveness.One common type of modified-release form is the extended-release (ER) formulation. ER...