Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery
Start with the big picture
Nanocarriers include liposomes, solid-lipid and polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, metallic nanoparticles, nanocrystals, and micelles. Delivery may rely on passive accumulation in tissues with enhanced permeability and retention, or active targeting with ligands such as antibodies, peptides, or folate. Formulation assessment considers properties including particle size, polydispersity, surface charge, drug loading, encapsulation, and release. Surface modification such as PEGylation can extend circulation, while stimuli-responsive designs aim to release drug in response to local pH, redox conditions, enzymes, or temperature. The topic also compares carrier-specific benefits and limitations, considers oral nano-formulations, and introduces analytical methods such as dynamic light scattering and electron microscopy.
What you'll learn
- Identify major nanocarrier types and distinguish their key formulation features.
- Compare passive targeting with ligand-mediated active targeting.
- Describe critical quality attributes used to assess nanocarrier formulations.
- Explain how PEGylation and stimuli-responsive design can affect delivery.
- Recognize selected characterization methods and nanocarrier applications.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.
