POLYMERIC NANOPARTICLES FOR DRUG DELIVERY: BIODEGRADABILITY AND SAFETY

Polymeric nanoparticles have shown to be highly adaptable biodegradable carriers with the ability to deliver drugs in a controlled, targeted, and patient-centered manner with minimal safety implications on a long-term basis. This review summarizes the existing information on design, manufacturing, and biological performance of polymeric nanocarriers with special emphasis given on biodegradability and toxicological characteristics. Natural and synthetic polymers, natural and hydrolytic degradation, and the effects of polymer-drug interactions on the dynamics of release are key areas that are discussed. Safety considerations (in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility, immunogenicity, the risk of inflammation, and long-term clearance) are of paramount importance and are assessed and their regulatory requirements are evaluated with regard to preclinical testing and clinical translation. The clinical potential of these systems is demonstrated by the application in cancer therapy, anti-infective treatment, gene and RNA delivery and at the multiple administration routes. Lastly, future issues associated with scale-up, stability, and the transition to personalized nanomedicine and next-generation biodegradable polymers are also discussed to inform future studies and logical nanocarrier engineering. All in all, the article offers a cohesive framework of a connection of materials choices to efficacy and safety.