Nanoparticles as Carriers of Proteins, Peptides and Other Therapeutic Molecules

Abstract

Nanoparticles have many applications both in industry and medicine. Depending upon their physical and chemical properties, they can be used as carriers of therapeutic molecules or as therapeutics. Nanoparticles are made of synthetic or natural polymers, lipids or metals. Their use allows for faster transport to the place of action, thus prolonging its presence in the body and limiting side effects. In addition, the use of such a drug delivery system protects the drug from rapid disintegration and elimination from the body. In recent years, the use of proteins and peptides as therapeutic molecules has grown significantly. Unfortunately, proteins are subject to enzymatic digestion and can cause unwanted immune response beyond therapeutic action. The use of drug carriers can minimize undesirable side effects and reduce the dose of medication needed to achieve the therapeutic effect. The current study presents the use of several selected drug delivery systems for the delivery of proteins, peptides and other therapeutic molecules.

Keywords: Nanoparticles; active transport; carriers; drug delivery systems; protein carriers.

Figure 1

A schematic illustration showing passive and active transport of nanocarrier with a drug to the target cell.

Figure 2

Examples of nanoparticle drug delivery systems.