Micro and nanotechnologies: The little formulations that could

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanomedicine
• Medical Technology

Background:

• The earliest application of micro- and nanotechnology in medicine dates back to 1798 with Edward Jenner's use of the Cowpox virus for smallpox vaccination.
• Since then, there has been a significant expansion in the development and application of micro- and nanotechnologies within the medical field.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of micro- and nanotechnologies in medicine.
• To highlight their historical progression, clinical relevance, and impact on therapies and vaccines.
• To serve as an accessible primer for understanding clinically relevant platforms.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical publications and scientific literature.
• Analysis of the progression of micro- and nanotechnologies, including clinical trials and FDA approvals.
• Discussion of specific examples of successful applications and associated challenges.

Main Results:

• Successful applications include severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, Janssen) and liposomal Doxil.
• Challenges faced include production halts (Doxil) and company bankruptcies (BIND Therapeutics) related to nanoparticle drug carriers.
• The field has overcome these obstacles, demonstrating continuous advancement in novel platforms.

Conclusions:

• Micro- and nanotechnology have profoundly transformed medical therapies, vaccines, and imaging.
• Despite past challenges, the field continues to innovate, offering new and improved clinical solutions.
• This review summarizes key clinically relevant micro- and nanotechnology platforms.