Nanosponges in Modern Pharmaceutics: A Comprehensive Review on Structure, Functionality, and Future Directions
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22270/ajprd.v13i6.1663Abstract
Nanosponges (NSs) are an emerging class of porous polymeric nanocarriers that have revolutionized the field of drug delivery by offering enhanced solubility, stability, and controlled release of therapeutic agents. Structurally, they consist of three-dimensional hyper-cross-linked polymer networks with nano-sized cavities capable of encapsulating both hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs. Cyclodextrin-based NSs, in particular, have gained prominence due to their ability to form inclusion complexes, improving drug bioavailability and reducing adverse effects. These carriers provide significant advantages such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxicity, and high loading efficiency, making them superior to traditional nanocarriers.Various synthesis techniquesincluding solvent evaporation, ultrasound-assisted synthesis, melt method, and quasi-emulsion solvent diffusionenable tunable physicochemical properties for desired drug delivery applications.NSs have demonstrated promising potential in oral, topical, transdermal, pulmonary, and targeted drug delivery systems. Their ability to provide sustained and site-specific release makes them particularly valuable in cancer therapy, antifungal treatments, and antimicrobial drug formulations. Furthermore, the incorporation of NSs into hydrogels or composite systems has opened new possibilities for wound healing and cosmetic formulations. Current research is directed toward developing stimuliresponsive and ligand-functionalized NSs to achieve smart, targeted delivery.The future scope of NSs lies in the development of herbal NS systems, multi-drug delivery platforms, and environmentally responsive nanocarriers for precision therapeutics.
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