In drug delivery, nanoparticles can improve the bioavailability of drugs, target specific cells or tissues, and release drugs in a controlled manner. Key mechanisms include:
Passive Targeting: Nanoparticles accumulate in tissues with enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, such as tumor tissues. Active Targeting: Surface modification of nanoparticles with ligands or antibodies that bind specifically to receptors on target cells. Controlled Release: Nanoparticles can be engineered to release drugs in response to specific stimuli, such as pH, temperature, or light.
