A sight on protein-based nanoparticles as drug/gene delivery systems

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• Synthetic polymers face limitations in drug/gene delivery due to toxic solvents and surfactants.
• Natural biomolecules like proteins and polysaccharides present safer alternatives.
• Protein-based nanoparticles are advantageous for drug and gene delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the applications of biodegradable protein-based nanoparticles in drug/gene delivery.
• To discuss the physicochemical properties of these nanoparticles as pharmaceutical carriers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on protein-based nanoparticles for drug/gene delivery.
• Analysis of their origins and properties.

Main Results:

• Protein-based nanoparticles exhibit biocompatibility and biodegradability.
• They can be functionalized with targeting ligands for enhanced delivery.
• Their unique properties facilitate formulation as pharmaceutical carriers.

Conclusions:

• Biodegradable protein-based nanoparticles are promising for targeted and controlled drug/gene delivery.
• Their natural origin addresses safety concerns associated with synthetic polymers.