Impact of Nanotechnology on the Future of Pharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals: The Road toward Precision Medicines—Case Studies ^†

Abstract

Our Work focuses on the development of active molecular targeting utilizing novel conjugated specific targeting molecules that differentially target specific organ or diseased area with minimal distribution into normal organs in order to achieve optimal efficacy and safety profiles. In that regards, over the past decade, evidence from the scientific and medical communities has demonstrated that nanobiotechnology and nanomedicine have tremendous potential to affect numerous aspects of cancer and other disorders in terms of early diagnosis and targeted therapy [1,2,3,4]. The utilization of nanotechnology for the development of new nanocarrier systems has the potential to offer improved targeted delivery through increased solubility and sustained retention and, more importantly, active targeting. One of the major advantages of this innovative technology is its unique multifunctional characteristics [1,2,3,4]. Targeted delivery of drug-incorporated nanoparticles, through the conjugation of site-specific cell surface markers, such as tumor-specific antibodies or ligands, can enhance the efficacy of the anticancer drug and reduce the side effects [3,4,5,6]. Additionally, multifunctional characteristics of the nanocarrier system would allow for simultaneous imaging of tumor mass, targeted drug delivery and monitoring (theranostics). A summary of the recent progress in nanotechnology as it relates to nanoparticles and drug delivery are reviewed in the slide presentation. Nano nutraceuticals, using a combination of various natural products, provide great potential in disease prevention [4]. Additionally, various nanomedicine approaches for the detection and treatment of various types of organ-specific delivery, vascular targeting, and vaccines are highlighted in the slide presentation. In conclusion, this presentation highlighted the key role of nanobiotechnology in achieving effective and safe pharmaceuticals, optimizing vaccine delivery, targeting the delivery for optimal biodistribution into targeted sites as well as improving PK and PD and minimizing impact of pharmacogenomic variables. These aspects could accelerate the transition from nanomedicines into precision medicines.