Nanocarrier-enabled chemotherapy and diagnostics in respiratory diseases

Respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), tuberculosis, pneumonia, and lung cancer are some of the major health challenges worldwide regarding morbidity and mortality. Conventional therapies using antibiotics and corticosteroids are limited by poor bioavailability, systemic side effects, and reduced patient compliance. Pulmonary drug delivery systems have emerged as a promising alternative, they offer site-specific targeting of drugs, faster onset of action, and lower systemic exposure. Nanocarriers increase more the therapeutic potential since they can cross biological barriers in the lungs, protect the enclosed drugs from degradation, and permit controlled release at targeted sites. The smart nanocarriers can respond to internal stimuli such as pH and redox; external stimuli like temperature and light are concepts for next-generation approaches to deliver anticancer as well as autoimmune and infectious disease treatments. Smart nanoparticles have significant potential for precision therapy in respiratory diseases by focusing on inflamed or malignant lung tissues. These new ways could revolutionize treatment strategies, maximize efficacy while minimize adverse effects. This review also discusses novel drug delivery strategies that could offer more effective solutions for respiratory diseases, addressing the limitations of existing treatments and paving the way for more efficient therapies in the future.