Transcending Cellular Barriers by Leveraging Nano-Bio Interactions in Nanomaterial-Driven Disease Therapy

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Nanomedicine leverages nanosystems for biomedical innovation, engineering particles at the molecular and atomic levels.
• Nanomaterials possess unique properties influencing their biological fate, crucial for therapeutic applications.
• Cellular membranes pose a significant barrier to intracellular drug delivery, limiting the efficacy of many pharmacological agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in nanomedicine, focusing on translational potential.
• To explore the critical interactions between nanomaterials and cell membranes for improved drug delivery.
• To discuss the role of physicochemical properties in nanomaterial biocompatibility, toxicity, and targeted delivery.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search across PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar.
• Prioritization of studies on nanomaterial properties, cellular uptake, and disease-specific applications.
• Analysis of physicochemical attributes related to biocompatibility, nanotoxicity, and targeting.

Main Results:

• Cellular uptake mechanisms, including endocytosis and phagocytosis, are key to nanomaterial interaction with cell membranes.
• Custom nanomaterial design is essential, as uptake mechanisms can vary (e.g., in photothermal therapy).
• Understanding intracellular pathways is vital for enhancing the targeting of therapeutic and imaging agents.

Conclusions:

• Comprehending cell-nanomaterial interactions is essential for overcoming drug delivery barriers.
• Optimized nanomaterial design can improve site-specific targeting and therapeutic efficacy.
• Further research into biocompatibility and nanotoxicity is necessary for safe and effective nanomedicine applications.