Polymeric nanocapsules: An emerging drug delivery system

摘要

Polymeric nanocapsules are the nanostructures possessingspecial morphology and architecture as compared to otherpolymeric nanoparticles. Nanocapsules comprise a core inwhich actives, namely, drugs and proteins are containedinside and enveloped by typical polymeric membrane.Actives which undergo destruction, degradation, andmetabolism during administration are excellent candidatesfor encapsulation into nanocapsules as the enveloping layerprotects the drug from surrounding environment. Drugscan be in solid, liquid, or molecular dispersion form. Inaddition, this drug delivery system protects body againstthe toxic effects of drug (toxic metabolites). Controlled drugrelease and local drug delivery can easily be achieved withthe formulation of nanocapsules. The techniques to producenanocapsules include self?assembly and template based.The first one includes the aggregation of lipid moleculesin aqueous solutions from a vesicular structure, but in thelater approach, a shell of polymer is formed around thedrug particle which can be eliminated afterward leavingan empty shell. Polymeric nanocapsules possess improvedstability and controlled release owing to its thick, tough,and less permeability of hydrophobic membrane. Thismembrane can be altered as per the desired targeting andcontrolled release effect. These nanocapsules hold excellentcapability for the delivery of therapeutics and diagnostics.Nanocapsules have been discovered as a transdermaldrug delivery system, tumor targeting, cancer treatment,etc., Moreover, nanocapsules are still finding the way forapplications in cosmetics and cosmeceuticals.