Protein-based nanoparticles for drug delivery purposes

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• Proteins are biopolymers with advantageous properties like biodegradability and amphiphilicity, making them suitable for nanoparticle development.
• Certain proteins have Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status or are approved as excipients, simplifying regulatory pathways for clinical use.
• Protein-based nanoparticles present a promising alternative to synthetic polymers for drug delivery applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the primary proteins utilized in nanoparticle preparation for drug delivery.
• To outline methods for transforming proteins into nanoparticles capable of encapsulating bioactive compounds and drugs.
• To present examples of drug delivery applications using nanoparticles derived from albumins, globulins, and prolamins.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on protein-based nanoparticle fabrication techniques.
• Analysis of protein properties relevant to nanoparticle formation and drug encapsulation.
• Compilation of case studies demonstrating the application of protein-derived nanoparticles.

Main Results:

• Proteins like albumin, globulins, and prolamins are key biomaterials for nanoparticle synthesis.
• Various procedures enable the conversion of these proteins into effective drug delivery nanocarriers.
• Applications span diverse therapeutic areas, showcasing the versatility of protein-based nanoparticles.

Conclusions:

• Protein-based nanoparticles are highly adaptable platforms for drug delivery due to their favorable characteristics.
• The established safety profile of many proteins accelerates the clinical translation of these nanocarriers.
• This review highlights the potential of protein-derived nanoparticles in advancing pharmaceutical formulations.