Nano sponge as versatile carrier systems - an updated review

摘要

Nano sponge is a recent advancement in the nanotechnology based drug delivery system. These are 3- dimensional scaffolds formed by extensive cross linking of polymers to form small nano size cavities capable of incorporating both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs. This inclusion complexation behaviour enhances the aqueous solubility of drugs with low aqueous solubility. The use of biodegradable polymers can release the drug in a controlled and predictable fashion to maintain constant drug levels. Further advancement in the nanosponge drug delivery is the use of peptide linkers to specifically target a receptor, usually in case of tumors. This will minimize the adverse effects caused mainly due to unspecific release of drug other than tumor cells. In this review, an attempt is made to summarize the methods of development, evaluation techniques, molecular environment and possible areas of applications and future of nanosponge drug delivery systems.