Biofunctionalized targeted nanoparticles for therapeutic applications.

BACKGROUND The development of nanoparticles for the delivery of therapeutic agents has introduced new opportunities for the improvement of medical treatment. Recent efforts have focused on developing targeted nanoparticles, which are formulated by (for therapeutic delivery) functionalizing nanoparticle surfaces with targeting molecules, such as antibodies, peptides, small molecules and oligonucleotides. OBJECTIVES To review the state of targeted nanoparticles development. METHODS The authors discuss the nanoparticle platforms for therapeutic delivery, targeting molecules and the biofunctionalized targeted nanoparticles currently in development. RESULTS/CONCLUSIONS Biofunctionalized targeted nanoparticles have demonstrated exciting results in preclinical studies. With continued improvements, they may fulfill their potential as therapeutics carriers that can deliver the maximum dose to diseased tissue while minimizing effects on normal cells.