Functionalized and Nonfunctionalized Nanosystems for Mitochondrial Drug Delivery with Metallic Nanoparticles

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Mitochondrial Biology

Background:

• Metallic nanoparticles offer novel therapeutic and diagnostic potential for mitochondria-based disorders.
• Mitochondria, crucial for cellular energy, are implicated in various pathologies when dysfunctional.
• Metals and metal oxides (gold, iron, silver, platinum, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) exhibit unique properties for rectifying mitochondrial dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent research on metallic nanoparticles' effects on mitochondrial ultrastructure and function.
• To explore the potential of nanoengineered metals in treating diseases, including cancer.
• To discuss the contested aspects of biocompatibility, safety, and efficacy of metal nanoparticles.

Main Methods:

• Compilation of data from over 100 PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus indexed articles.
• Analysis of research reports on metallic nanoparticle exposure and its impact on mitochondria.
• Review of studies investigating nanoparticle-mediated alterations in metabolic homeostasis, ATP production, and oxidative stress.

Main Results:

• Metallic nanoparticles can alter mitochondrial ultrastructure, metabolic homeostasis, ATP production, and induce oxidative stress.
• Nanoengineered metals and their oxides target mitochondrial architecture for managing diseases like cancer.
• These nanosystems function as antioxidants and can be utilized for chemotherapeutic agent delivery.

Conclusions:

• Metallic nanoparticles present a promising frontier for mitochondria-targeted therapies and diagnostics.
• Further research is essential to address the biocompatibility, safety, and efficacy concerns surrounding their clinical application.
• The dual role as antioxidants and drug carriers highlights their therapeutic versatility.