From Nanotechnology to Targeted Therapy: Advances in Drug Delivery Systems

Abstract

Advanced drug delivery systems (ADDS) have transformed modern therapeutics by improving drug pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and safety profiles. Nanotechnology — including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), metallic nanoparticles, and nanoemulsions — enables controlled release, enhanced solubility, image-guided delivery, and active targeting[1] [2]. Clinical successes such as liposomal doxorubicin, albumin-bound paclitaxel, siRNA LNP therapeutics, and mRNA vaccines illustrate both the promise and translational challenges of nanomedicine[3][4][5][8]. This review outlines historical development, compares major nanocarriers and targeting strategies, highlights clinical case studies, addresses biological and regulatory barriers, and emphasizes emerging directions including stimuli-responsive systems, personalized nanomedicine, and computational design[6][7][9]. Opportunities and limitations for converting laboratory concepts into clinically relevant therapies are discussed.