Nanotechnology in general and as it relates to drug delivery in humans has been reviewed in a two-part article, the first part of which is this paper. In this paper, nanotechnology in nature, history of nanotechnology and methods of synthesis are discussed, while also outlining its applications, benefits and risks. Nanotechnology is an industrial revolution, based on integration of disciplines that could change every facet of human life. Some examples of changes brought about by reduction in particle sizes to the physical, chemical and biological properties of substances, compounds and drug products have been cited. The benefits of nanotechnology are enormous and so these benefits should be maximized while efforts are made to reduce the risks.

Abstract

Naturapolyceutics defines the emerging science and technology platform that blends natural polymers and pharmaceutics for the design and development of drug delivery systems. Natural polymers due to their biological properties, sustainability, chemical flexibility, human and eco-friendliness are promising in this field. As drug delivery advances, there will be need for more polymers. Given that polymers utilized in pharmaceuticals require regulatory approval, robust processes are undertaken to facilitate the production of pharmaceutical grade natural polymers. This review provides insight into the processes-extraction, purification, modifications and characterizations-involved in the eventual utilization of natural polymers for drug delivery. The versatility of natural polymers and particularly modified natural polymers in targeted drug delivery, micro-/nano-drug delivery, theranostics, BioMEMs and generally in research and development of highly efficient, safe and quality products is demonstrated. Natural polymers are polymers of today and tomorrow. Therefore, the shift to undertake training, extensive research and subsequent commercialization of more natural polymers-novel and underutilized-for drug delivery is now!

No abstract

No abstract