Nanomaterials in Targeted Drug Delivery: A Chemically Engineered Approach

Abstract

Nanomedicine has emerged as a revolutionary field combining nanotechnology with
pharmaceutical sciences to develop sophisticated drug delivery systems. Nanomaterials in the
nanoscale range (1-100 nm) are employed to serve as diagnostic tools and deliver therapeutic
agents to specific targeted sites in a controlled manner, offering multiple benefits in treating
chronic human diseases through site-specific and target-oriented delivery of precise medicines.
Among FDA-approved nanoparticle drugs, polymeric (29%), liposomal (22%), and lipid-based
(21%) formulations represent the most common categories, with paclitaxel being the most
frequently investigated drug content in clinical applications. This comprehensive review examines
the current status of nanomaterials in targeted drug delivery, focusing on their synthesis,
characterization, mechanisms of action, and clinical applications. We analyze various nanocarrier
systems including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, carbon-based
nanomaterials, and quantum dots. The global nanomedicine market has experienced significant
growth, with current estimates suggesting the nanoparticle drug delivery segment represents
approximately $28.5 billion globally in 2020, with projections indicating continued expansion.
Despite significant advances, challenges including regulatory approval, scalability, cost
implications, and potential toxicity must be addressed through streamlined regulatory processes
and enhanced safety evaluation protocols. The integration of advanced characterization
techniques, computational modeling, and personalized medicine approaches shows promise for
developing next-generation nanotherapeutics with improved efficacy and reduced adverse effects.