Emerging Applications of Polymeric Nanoparticles in Tumor Targeting

Abstract: Nanoparticles are well-established carriers for targeted delivery of bioactive polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs). They have attracted significant attention from pharmaceutical scientists globally due to their wide range of applications in the medical field. The encapsulation of drugs into the nanoparticles offers several unique characteristics leading to prolonged circulation, improved drug localization, and thus enhanced drug efficacy. It also provides a better understanding of the molecular basis of the disease. Nanoparticles allow efficient maintenance of medication cycles at the target site, with less exposure to normal cells and thus decreasing the rehabilitation period. Despite extensive developments in the field of nanotechnology, specifically in drug delivery, only a few nanotechnology- based products are currently available in the market. Thus, further advanced exploration is necessary to make nanoparticles useful for the betterment of mankind. This review is focused on recent advancements in pharmaceutical nanotechnology with special emphasis on polymers used for the preparation of PNPs and their emerging applications in tumor-targeting. This manuscript also highlights the recent patents disclosing PNPs for tumor targeting.