Targeted drug delivery using nanotechnology can be achieved through various mechanisms:
Passive targeting: Utilizes the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, where nanoparticles naturally accumulate in tumor tissues due to their leaky vasculature. Active targeting: Involves functionalizing nanoparticles with ligands or antibodies that specifically bind to receptors on the target cells, ensuring precise delivery. Stimuli-responsive targeting: Nanoparticles are designed to release their payload in response to specific stimuli, such as pH changes, temperature, or light.
