Biomaterial Based Nanocarriers for Delivering Immunomodulatory Agents

Abstract

When a natural or synthetic material is used to replace a living structure or becomes a part of a biomedical device, it is termed as a biomaterial. The utility of biomaterials has expanded to areas of tissue, blood, biological fluids etc. Replacement and repair of skeletal parts is one of the major areas of application of biomaterials. This review article focuses its attention on the use of biopolymers based nanocarriers for delivering immunomodulatory agents. The role of biopolymers is to modulate, suppress and stimulate innate or adaptive immune system. Based on the data available, nanoparticles can direct the immune system by improving cellular uptake efficiency and modulating the immune system. Nutrients and trace elements such as Se, Mg, etc., can boost the immune system. Plant derived immunomodulators are known and nanosystems find applications as a carrier system for immunomodulatory drugs. This review details the various nanocarriers and the factors affecting the immunomodulation of nanoparticles.