Biobased Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery

Abstract

Biobased nanomaterials have emerged as a pivotal element in modern drug delivery, garnering substantial attention within scientific research. These materials, sourced from nature or synthesized in laboratories, offer a multitude of advantages for drug delivery applications. A prominent advantage is their remarkable ability for targeted delivery, effectively minimizing off-target effects and enhancing treatment efficacy. These bio-based nanomaterials also exhibit exceptional biocompatibility, rendering them suitable for transporting drugs to specific bodily targets. Furthermore, their capacity to shield drugs from factors such as air, moisture, or enzymes ensures stability during transport. The important examples of these materials include chitosan, cellulose, chitin, starch, albumin, and carbon. Chapter 8—Bio-based templates at the service of nanotechnology: a promising approach for a sustainable future. In Sessini V, Ghosh S, Marta EG (eds). Mosquera, Biopolymers, Elsevier, pp. 233–262, 2023). These substances are cultivated within a biological context and boast inherent biodegradability, further enhancing their compatibility with biological systems. The utility of biobased materials extends beyond drug delivery, spanning various domains. In the realm of drug delivery, biobased nanomaterials play a pivotal role in facilitating controlled and sustained drug release. They enable precise drug delivery to intended sites while mitigating undesirable side effects, thereby significantly enhancing patient treatment outcomes. A plethora of studies are currently underway to investigate the efficacy and feasibility of biobased nanomaterials in drug transport, release, and targeting. Particularly within cancer therapy, these materials hold captivating potential for drug delivery and targeting. They can be engineered with molecules designed to selectively recognize cancer cells, including antibodies. This strategic adaptation allows drugs to be administered directly to cancer cells, leading to a substantial improvement in treatment efficacy without jeopardizing healthy tissues (Hossain et al. Chem Phys Impact 6:100180, 2023). Despite these promising strides, the commercial integration of biobased nanomaterials into drug delivery methodologies remains somewhat constrained. Presently, they are predominantly situated within the realm of clinical research and development. Factors such as safety, efficiency, and cost necessitate meticulous consideration, alongside the challenges related to production and scalability. Nonetheless, ongoing research and advancements in this domain possess the capability to eventually expand the widespread adoption of biobased nanomaterials in diverse drug delivery applications.