Dynamically Tunable Smart Nanodrug Perspectives: Promises and challenges of nanoparticle-based drug delivery

In the field of medicine, nanotechnology has garnered much attention, as it promises to address a number of issues related to conventional drug delivery techniques. A conventional application of drugs is characterized by limited effectiveness, poor biodistribution, and a lack of selectivity [1]. These limitations and drawbacks can be overcome by controlled drug delivery. In controlled drug delivery systems (DDSs), the drug is transported to the place of action, and, therefore, its influence on vital tissues and undesirable side effects can be minimized. In addition, a DDS protects the drug from rapid degradation or clearance and enhances drug concentration in target tissues, which reduces the frequency of the dosages taken by the patient and lowers the drug side-effects [1]. This modern form of therapy is especially important when it is necessary to find a fine balance between the concentration of a drug and its toxic effects [2].