Advances in Polymer-Based Nanoparticles for Biomedical and Industrial Applications

Polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) are considered to be a revolutionary method for drug delivery and offer significantly more advantages than conventional drug delivery systems. This review synthesizes recent research on biodegradable polymers in drug delivery, emphasizing their properties, modifications, toxicity, and applications in drug absorption. It consolidates key insights from 193 research papers to offer a comprehensive overview of the field, addressing existing research gaps and highlighting various applications. Polymers can be classified based on their structure, source, and biodegradability, which are crucial for assessing their environmental impact and suitability for various applications. Polymers are categorized into two main groups based on biodegradability: biodegradable and non-biodegradable. The primary aim of this review is to elucidate the diverse applications of natural and synthetic biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles, which include cancer treatment, diabetes management, pulmonary drug delivery, and the treatment of ocular infections, all of which are thoroughly explored in this review. Additionally, the role of polymer-based hydrogels is explored as a promising solution in drug delivery. These hydrogels address issues such as poor stability and enhance treatment efficacy by ensuring the sustained release of drugs.