Polymeric nanoparticle (PNP)

Polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) are submicron-sized colloidal systems composed of natural or synthetic polymers, such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), polylactic acid (PLA), or chitosan [1.1.1, 1.2.3]. They function as versatile drug delivery platforms designed to encapsulate, protect, and transport therapeutic agents to specific sites within the body [1.1.2, 1.2.5]. These carriers improve the solubility and stability of hydrophobic drugs and can be engineered for controlled, sustained, or stimuli-responsive release [1.1.4, 1.3.4]. By utilizing mechanisms such as the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect or surface-bound targeting ligands, they can selectively deliver drugs to tissues like tumors while minimizing systemic toxicity [1.1.3, 1.3.1]. In clinical applications, they are primarily used to enhance the delivery of chemotherapeutics, nucleic acids, and proteins [1.1.1, 1.2.2]. While they are essential components of modern nanomedicine, they are classified as delivery vehicles rather than biological targets like receptors or enzymes [1.2.4, 1.3.1].

Other names

Polymer/nanoparticle carrier matrixPolymeric nanocarrierPolymer-based nanoparticleNanoparticulate drug delivery systemPolymeric micelleNanocapsuleNanosphere

Polymeric nanoparticles facilitate drug delivery through passive targeting via the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect and active targeting using surface-conjugated ligands. They provide controlled and sustained release of encapsulated cargo, protecting it from degradation and improving the therapeutic index of the drug [1.1.3, 1.1.4, 1.3.4].