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Nanomedicines for Subcellular Targeting: The Mitochondrial Perspective.
Olakunle Oladimeji1, Jude Akinyelu1, Moganavelli Singh1
1Nano-Gene and Drug Delivery Group, Discipline of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban, South Africa.
This review highlights advances in mitochondrial nano-delivery for treating diseases like cancer and aging. It discusses challenges and strategies for developing nanotherapeutics targeting mitochondria effectively.
Area of Science:
- Mitochondrial medicine
- Nanotechnology
- Subcellular therapeutics
Background:
- Growing interest in mitochondrial therapeutics for various diseases.
- Subcellular targeting offers advantages over traditional drug delivery.
- Limited reviews exist on mitochondrial nano-delivery systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in mitochondrial nano-delivery.
- To address the gap in literature regarding nanotherapeutics for mitochondria.
- To explore strategies for effective subcellular targeting.
Main Methods:
- Extensive literature review on mitochondrial nano-delivery.
- Compilation of salient information on nanotherapeutics.
- Analysis of nanoparticle properties for targeted delivery.
Main Results:
- Nanoparticles show potential for efficient therapeutic delivery to mitochondria.
- Several nanomedicines are FDA-approved or in clinical trials.
- Designing carriers requires understanding the diseased microenvironment and mitochondrial features.
Conclusions:
- Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in various diseases.
- Nano-delivery strategies are emerging for subcellular targeting.
- Potential therapeutic sites and en route barriers for mitochondrial targeting are identified.
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