Responsive drug delivery systems can be designed to respond to various internal and external stimuli. Common triggers include:
pH: Certain nanomaterials can release drugs in response to the acidic or basic environments found in different parts of the body. Temperature: Some systems are designed to release drugs when they encounter a specific temperature range. Enzymes: Enzyme-sensitive materials can release drugs in response to the presence of specific enzymes that are often associated with certain diseases. Light: Light-sensitive nanoparticles can be activated by certain wavelengths of light to release their payload.