Introduction to Nanoparticles
Nanoparticles are ultrafine particles that range in size from 1 to 100 nm.
In the realm of NDDS, they are designed to facilitate enhanced drug delivery and release, often providing improved therapeutic outcomes compared to conventional drug formulations.
Given their size, nanoparticles can navigate the human body in unique ways, accessing hard-to-reach disease sites, crossing biological barriers, and providing targeted delivery of their therapeutic cargo.
Preparation of Nanoparticles
Several methods can be used to prepare nanoparticles:
1. Solvent Evaporation:
A solution of the drug and polymer is made using an organic solvent. This is then emulsified into an aqueous phase. The organic solvent is evaporated, leaving behind polymer nanoparticles encapsulating the drug.
2. Nano-precipitation:
The drug and polymer are dissolved in a solvent, which is then added dropwise to a non-solvent (usually water) to induce nanoparticle formation.
3. Emulsion Polymerization:
This method involves the polymerization of monomers in the presence of stabilizers and surfactants to form nanoparticles.
4. High-Pressure Homogenization:
The drug and polymer are dispersed in a liquid medium and then passed through a homogenizer under high pressure to produce nanoparticles.
