Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 12, 2026
10:12
Flash NanoPrecipitation for the Encapsulation of Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Compounds in Polymeric Nanoparticles
Published on: January 7, 2019
Trends in nanopharmaceutical patents
Adelaide Antunes1, Iolanda Fierro, Rafaela Guerrante
1National Institute of Industrial Property (Brazil), Mayrink Veiga, n° 9 Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. aantunes@inpi.gov.br.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|March 29, 2013
Summary
Nanotechnology investments are surging in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly in nanobiotechnology. Patent analysis reveals significant R&D in nanoparticle drug delivery, chemotherapy agents, and contrast agents for improved therapies.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Science
- Nanotechnology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Governments, research centers, and companies globally are investing heavily in nanotechnology.
- Nanoparticles offer unique properties like stability, antigen identification, and controlled drug release, making them valuable in pharmaceuticals.
- Patent data serves as a metric for science and technology activities, as per the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OCDE).
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze patent documents concerning nanotechnology within the pharmaceutical sector.
- To identify key areas of research and development (R&D) and investment trends.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of patent documents related to nanotechnology in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Utilizing patent data as an indicator of scientific and technological activity.
Main Results:
- Nanobiotechnology is attracting substantial R&D investments.
- Key areas include nanoparticle-based chemotherapeutic agents and drugs.
- Monoclonal antibody nanoparticle complexes and their application in drug delivery are prominent.
- Development of non-toxic contrast agents using nanoparticles is also a focus.
Conclusions:
- Nanotechnology, particularly nanobiotechnology, represents a significant area of investment and innovation in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Patents highlight advancements in targeted therapies, drug delivery systems, and diagnostic agents.
Related Concept Videos
01:15Impact of Pharmacokinetic–Pharmacodynamic Models: Regulatory Decisions
PK–PD modeling has significantly influenced FDA regulatory decisions, particularly drug approval, dosage optimization, and labeling. These models integrate pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) to predict drug behavior and effects, aiding in optimizing dosing regimens and enhancing the probability of clinical trial success.One notable example is Nesiritide (Natrecor®), a recombinant human brain natriuretic peptide for treating acute decompensated congestive heart failure (CHF).
01:27Pharmaceutical Alternatives: Polymorphic Form-Related and Particle Size-Related Therapeutic Nonequivalence
Changes in polymorphic forms can significantly influence the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. Although the FDA defines pharmaceutical equivalence based on having the same active ingredient, dosage form, and route of administration, it does not automatically disqualify products with different polymorphic forms. This means two products with different polymorphs can still be deemed pharmaceutically equivalent. However, polymorphic differences can affect properties like wettability,...
01:28Drug Products: Biologics, Biosimilars and Interchangeables
Biologics, derived from living sources such as humans, animals, or microorganisms, represent a significant category of pharmaceuticals. These complex molecules, developed through advanced biotechnological methods or purified from natural sources, include essential medical treatments like insulin and growth hormones. The complexity of biologics arises from their large molecular structures and the intricate processes required for their production, making them distinct from conventional...
01:22Biopharmaceutical Factors Influencing Drug Product Design: Overview
Rational drug product design integrates knowledge of the drug’s physicochemical properties, formulation components, manufacturing techniques, and intended route of administration. Each factor influences the drug’s performance, including how it is released, absorbed, and eliminated in the body.The physicochemical properties of a drug—such as solubility, stability, and particle size—affect its compatibility with excipients and the choice of dosage form. Excipients, though pharmacologically...
01:26FDA Approved Drugs: Changes to Approved Drugs
Post-approval, manufacturers may modify an approved new or generic drug product. Such modifications can encompass alterations in the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API), manufacturing process, formulation, batch size, manufacturing site, and container closure system (FDA Guidance for Industry, April 2004). Often, a drug product may undergo multiple changes.These modifications require careful evaluation to determine their potential impact on the drug product's identity, strength, quality,...
01:29Pharmacogenomics: Identification of New Drug Targets
Advances in genomics have profoundly influenced drug discovery by increasing both the speed and accuracy of pharmaceutical development. Pharmacogenomics, which examines how genetic variation influences drug response, facilitates the identification of novel therapeutic targets and enables patient stratification for personalized treatment. These strategies contribute to improved drug efficacy, minimized adverse effects, and more efficient clinical trial design.Mapping genetic differences...