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Polymeric Nanohybrids as a New Class of Therapeutic Biotransporters
Author(s) -
Whitlow Jonathan,
Pacelli Settimio,
Paul Arghya
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
macromolecular chemistry and physics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.57
H-Index - 112
eISSN - 1521-3935
pISSN - 1022-1352
DOI - 10.1002/macp.201500464
Subject(s) - nanotechnology , nanocarriers , drug delivery , regenerative medicine , computer science , materials science , chemistry , cell , biochemistry
A possible solution to enhance existing drug and gene therapies is to develop hybrid nanocarriers capable of delivering therapeutic agents in a controlled and targeted manner. This goal can be achieved by designing nanohybrid systems, which combine organic or inorganic nanomaterials with biomacromolecules into a single composite. The unique combination of properties along with their facile fabrication enables the design of smart carriers for both drug and gene delivery. These hybrids can be further modified with cell targeting motifs to enhance their biological interactivity. In this Talents and Trends article, an overview of emerging nanohybrid‐based technologies will be provided to highlight their potential use as innovative platforms for improved cancer therapies and new strategies in regenerative medicine. The clinical relevance of these systems will be reviewed to define the current challenges which still need to be addressed to allow these therapies to move from bench to bedside.