Biodegradable polymers for potential delivery systems for therapeutics

Abstract

Biodegradable polymers are being extensively used with great interest in areas of nanobiotechnology such as drug delivery, diagnostics, and other applications for clinical and biomedical research covering cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, osteogenesis, cancer, and tissue engineering. Various biodegradable polymers such as poly(lactic acid), poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), poly (ε-caprolactone), chitosan, gelatin, and poly(alkyl cyanoacrylates) have been extensively utilized as polymeric materials and devices for targeted cellular and tissue-specific clinical applications to achieve maximal therapeutic efficacy with minimal or no side effects. Recently, polymeric nanoparticles have revolutionized the area of nanobiotechnology by creating new opportunities for advancing medical science and disease treatment. Polymeric nanoparticles have the potential to act as a carrier of drugs and active constituents to targeted sites, protecting them from the environment and controlling their release rates, thereby enhancing their biological activity and decreasing the adverse side effects. This article compiles updated information regarding various biodegradable polymers, methods of preparation of biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles, and their application in therapeutic and diagnostic strategies for various diseases. This article will support research scientists and clinical physicians who are interested in the development and application of biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles as potential delivery systems for therapeutics. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.