Nano Traditional Chinese Medicine: Current Progresses and Future Challenges
Yi Huang, Yinglan Zhao, Fang Liu
1Department of Pharmacy, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China. songqingliu@hotmail.com.
Current Drug Targets
|March 10, 2015
Summary
Nano traditional Chinese medicine (nano TCM) enhances drug delivery and efficacy by utilizing nanotechnology. While offering benefits like improved bioavailability and targeted delivery, challenges remain in its theoretical framework, preparation, and safety.
Area of Science:
- Integrative Medicine
- Nanotechnology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) modernization involves integrating advanced technologies.
- Nanotechnology offers novel approaches to process TCM components.
- Nano TCM involves bioactive ingredients or materials processed to approximately 100 nm.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review research on nano TCM published over the last 15 years.
- To identify preparation methods and applications of nano TCM.
- To analyze the advantages and challenges of nano TCM.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of nano TCM research.
- Analysis of different nanotechnologies used for TCM nanolization.
- Identification of key preparation approaches: mechanical crushing and nanoparticulate drug delivery systems.
Main Results:
- Mechanical crushing is primary for nanolizing TCM materials and prescriptions.
- Nanoparticulate systems are key for nanolizing bioactive ingredients.
- Nano TCM demonstrates enhanced bioavailability, reduced side effects, sustained release, targeted delivery, and improved administration routes.
Conclusions:
- Nano TCM presents significant advantages in improving TCM efficacy and delivery.
- Key challenges include refining the theoretical system of TCM modernization.
- Further research is needed on preparation technologies, safety, and stability of nano TCM.
