Bioinspired Nano-Formulations

Abstract

The conventional drug delivery systems often fail to achieve target-specific drug delivery which results in toxic plasma profiles. Bioinspired nano-formulations (BioIns-NFs) could sense the localized host environment for improved therapeutic and diagnostic efficacy. These BioIns-NFs could also bind to specific receptors which render them ideal nanocarriers for drug and gene delivery. BioIns-NFs also hold edges over conventional nano-formulations due to their low cost, easy synthesis/preparation and low toxicity. In this chapter, the first section elaborates the foundations and advantages of BioIns-NFs in drug delivery are visited. Then common strategies to fabricate drug loaded BioIns-NFs are discussed by reviewing recent examples. Finally, the main section focuses on bioinspired nanomaterials, which we have broadly categorized into biotemplates and biomimics as well as natural materials either from plant or animal origin. BioIns-NFs constitute of lipids, polymers, and biomaterials, which utilizes various responsive sensors to attain targeted drug delivery systems. The external stimuli, such as pH, temperature, heat, light, magnetic or electric field, and ultrasounds, affect the BioIns-NF for drug delivery. Finally, applications and challenges of these BioIns-NF in oral (cancer therapy and diagnostics) and transdermal delivery are highlighted while special reference to endogenous stimuli responsive ( Host environment-responsive) and exogenous stimuli responsive (External stimuli-responsive).