Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 15, 2026

Manufacture and Drug Delivery Applications of Silk Nanoparticles
Published on: October 8, 2016
Tailoring the Inherent Properties of Biobased Nanoparticles for Nanomedicine
Alap Ali Zahid1, Aishik Chakraborty1, Wei Luo1
1Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5B9, Canada.
Abstract:
Biobased nanoparticles are at the leading edge of the rapidly developing field of nanomedicine and biotherapeutics. Their unique size, shape, and biophysical properties make them attractive tools for biomedical research, including vaccination, targeted drug delivery, and immune therapy. These nanoparticles are engineered to present native cell receptors and proteins on their surfaces, providing a biomimicking camouflage for therapeutic cargo to evade rapid degradation, immune rejection, inflammation, and clearance. Despite showing promising clinical relevance, commercial implementation of these biobased nanoparticles is yet to be fully realized. In this perspective, we discuss advanced biobased nanoparticle designs used in medical applications, such as cell membrane nanoparticles, exosomes, and synthetic lipid-derived nanoparticles, and highlight their benefits and potential challenges. Moreover, we critically assess the future of preparing such particles using artificial intelligence and machine learning. These advanced computational tools will be able to predict the functional composition and behavior of the proteins and cell receptors present on the nanoparticle surfaces. With more advancement in designing new biobased nanoparticles, this field of research could play a key role in dictating the future rational design of drug transporters, thereby ultimately improving overall therapeutic outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Bioavailability Enhancement: Determination and Conceptual Approaches in Overcoming Bioavailability Problems
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Site-Targeted
Site-Targeted Drug Delivery Systems: Polymeric Carriers

