Nanocarrier

Nanocarrier designates nanoscale delivery systems, typically ranging from 1-1000 nanometres, engineered to transport therapeutic agents to specific tissues or cells while providing enhanced stability, controlled release, improved bioavailability, reduced toxicity, and ability to cross biological barriers. These platforms encompass liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, micelles, solid lipid nanoparticles, and protein-based carriers.

The biopharmaceutical industry has successfully translated nanocarrier technology into marketed products including Doxil delivering doxorubicin with reduced cardiotoxicity, mRNA COVID-19 vaccines employing lipid nanoparticles, and Onpattro using lipid nanoparticles for siRNA delivery. Nanocarrier design variables affecting performance include size influencing biodistribution, surface properties determining circulation time, cargo loading capacity, and targeting ligands directing nanocarriers to specific cell types. Technical challenges include manufacturing scalability, stability during storage, sterilisation, and comprehensive characterisation. As nanotechnology advances through improved targeting strategies, stimuli-responsive systems, and manufacturing innovations, nanocarriers continue expanding therapeutic applications enabling delivery of previously undevelopable drugs.