Recent Advances in Nanoparticle-Based Targeted Drug Delivery Systems: A Comprehensive Review

Authors

  • Omar Mar Cornelio * Center for Computational Mathematics Studies, University of Computer Science, 19370 Havana, Cuba. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0689-6341
  • Fatemeh Rezaie Teimurbaglou Department of Chemistry, Islamic Azad University, Tonekabon Branch, Tonekabon, Iran.

https://doi.org/10.48314/nna.vi.60

Abstract

Nanomedicine has transformed the landscape of therapeutic interventions, with nanoparticle-based targeted drug delivery systems representing one of its most promising advances. Conventional chemotherapy often suffers from poor specificity, leading to severe systemic toxicity and limited efficacy. This comprehensive review synthesizes recent progress in the design and application of engineered nanoparticles that address these limitations through enhanced targeting, improved bioavailability, and controlled drug release. Major classes of nanocarriers including lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs and liposomes), polymeric and inorganic nanoparticles (such as gold NPs), dendrimers, and exosomes are systematically categorized and discussed with emphasis on their physicochemical characteristics and biomedical applications. The review further highlights key targeting strategies, including passive targeting via the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect and active targeting through surface-functionalized ligands such as antibodies, peptides, and aptamers. Special attention is given to stimuli-responsive or “smart” nanocarriers that enable drug release in response to internal (pH, enzymes, redox) or external (light, magnetic field) cues. Advances in multifunctional platforms, combination therapies, and artificial intelligence–assisted nanocarrier design are also discussed, alongside ongoing challenges such as crossing biological barriers, particularly the blood brain barrier. Finally, the review outlines the translational landscape, regulatory considerations, and future perspectives of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, offering insights into the path from bench to bedside.

Keywords:

Targeted drug delivery, Nanoparticles, Nanomedicine, Cancer therapy

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Published

2025-03-12

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): Nano Nexus & Applications (NNA)

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Mar Cornelio, O. . ., & Rezaie Teimurbaglou, F. . . (2025). Recent Advances in Nanoparticle-Based Targeted Drug Delivery Systems: A Comprehensive Review. Nano Nexus & Applications, 1(1), 12-23. https://doi.org/10.48314/nna.vi.60