PREFACE
The primary goal of nanomedicine is to improve clinical outcomes. Toward this end, targeted nanoparticles are engineered to reduce non-productive distribution while improving diagnostic and therapeutic efficacy. Paradoxically, as this field has matured, the notion of ‘targeting’ has been minimized to the concept of increasing affinity of a nanoparticle for its target. This review outlines a holistic view of nanoparticle targeting, in which nanoparticle route of administration, molecular characteristics, and temporal control are potential design variables that must be considered simultaneously. This comprehensive vision for nanoparticle targeting will hasten the integration of nanomedicines into clinical practice.