Engineered Nanomaterials for Immunomodulation: A Review

Abstract

The immune system usually provides a defense against invading pathogenic microorganisms and any other particulate contaminants. Nonetheless, it has been recently reported that nanomaterials can evade the immune system and modulate immunological responses due to their unique physicochemical characteristics. Consequently, nanomaterial-based activation of immune components, i.e., neutrophils, macrophages, and other effector cells, may induce inflammation and alter the immune response. Here, it is essential to distinguish the acute and chronic modulations triggered by nanomaterials to determine the possible risks to human health. Nanomaterials size, shape, composition, surface charge, and deformability are factors controlling their uptake by immune cells and the resulting immune responses. The exterior corona of molecules adsorbed over nanomaterials surfaces also influences their immunological effects. Here, we review current nanoengineering trends for targeted immunomodulation with an emphasis on the design, safety, and potential toxicity of nanomaterials. First, we describe the characteristics of engineered nanomaterials that trigger immune responses. Then, the biocompatibility and immunotoxicity of nanoengineered particles are debated, because these factors influence applications. Finally, future nanomaterial developments in terms of surface modifications, synergistic approaches, and biomimetics are discussed.

Nanomaterial-Driven Precision Immunomodulation: A New Paradigm in Therapeutic Interventions

“…Covalent immobilization of nanomaterials with miRNAs is a promising approach for modulating immune signaling pathways. The utilization of nanomaterials and miRNAs in the formulation of targeted immunotherapies represents an improvement of the limitations of conventional therapy [ 24 , 105 ]. In addition to expanding the therapeutic repertoire, the delivery of miRNAs using nanomaterials is expected to address some of the disadvantages of conventional therapies, such as off-target effects and the development of resistance.…”