Perspectives and opportunities for nanomedicine in the management of atherosclerosis

Although traditionally exploited to improve anticancer drug delivery, the potential uses of nanomedicine in the management of cardiovascular disease are now recognized. Here, Mulder and colleagues review recent advances in applying nanotechnology to the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis. The use of nanotechnology for medical purposes — nanomedicine — has grown exponentially over the past few decades. This is exemplified by the US Food and Drug Administration's approval of several nanotherapies for various conditions, as well as the funding of nanomedical programmes worldwide. Although originally the domain of anticancer therapy, recent advances have illustrated the considerable potential of nanomedicine in the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis. This Review elaborates on nanoparticle-targeting concepts in atherosclerotic disease, provides an overview of the use of nanomedicine in atherosclerosis, and discusses potential future applications and clinical benefits.