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Biomedicines
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Drug Delivery and Nanocarrier
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Drug Delivery and Nanocarrier

A special issue of Biomedicines (ISSN 2227-9059). This special issue belongs to the section "Nanomedicine and Nanobiology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 September 2026 | Viewed by 4709

Editor

Dr. Jiawei Huo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
Interests: nanomedicine; drug delivery; cancer immunotherapy; molecular biology nanomedicine

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Nanotechnology has become a powerful tool for developing new solutions in many scientific fields. In medicine, especially particularly drug delivery, this technology has brought important advances and continues to attract interest from researchers. Nanocarriers, such as lipid nanoparticles, polymeric micelles, dendrimers, and metal–organicmetal-organic frameworks, can effectively deliver drugs or diagnostic agents directly to where they are needed. By modifying the surface of these nanotiny carriers, scientists researchers can improve their compatibility with the body, increase how long they circulate in the bloodstream, and use them to target specific disease sites more accurately. This Special Issue, titled "Drug Delivery and Nanocarrier", invites researchers to share their latest findings, reviews, and perspectives on new nanocarrier designs and applications. We especially welcome studies that introduce new strategies for precise and controlled drug delivery, explore systems that integrate both diagnosis and treatment, or offer solutions to overcome biological barriers. Articles that investigate the safety, effectiveness, and potential clinical applications of these nanocarriers are also highly particularly welcome.

Dr. Jiawei Huo
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-anonymized peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Biomedicines is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • nanocarriers
  • targeted drug delivery
  • controlled release
  • theranostics
  • biocompatibility
  • functionalized nanoparticles
  • nanomedicine
  • translational nanotechnology

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

23 pages, 7269 KB  
Article
Low-Dose Vitamin C-Based Electroporation of Solid Tumors: A New Area in Non-Cytotoxic Electrochemotherapy
by Seyed Mojtaba YazdanParast, Navid Manoochehri and Mohammad Abdolahad
Biomedicines 2026, 14(4), 936; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14040936 - 20 Apr 2026
Viewed by 529
Abstract
Background: Electrochemotherapy enhances the intracellular delivery of anticancer agents through electroporation but is traditionally limited to cytotoxic drugs associated with significant side effects. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) exhibits selective anticancer activity when accumulated at high intracellular concentrations; however, its therapeutic application is [...] Read more.
Background: Electrochemotherapy enhances the intracellular delivery of anticancer agents through electroporation but is traditionally limited to cytotoxic drugs associated with significant side effects. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) exhibits selective anticancer activity when accumulated at high intracellular concentrations; however, its therapeutic application is restricted by poor membrane permeability and rapid systemic clearance. Methods: In this study, we investigated whether reversible electroporation, applied using a custom-designed variable plate electrode system designed to deliver a uniform electric field, could potentiate the antitumor efficacy of low-dose vitamin C. Numerical simulations were performed to optimize electrode spacing and stimulation voltage, suggesting homogeneous electric field coverage throughout the tumor volume. The proposed approach was evaluated in vitro using MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 breast cancer cell lines and in vivo in a 4T1 murine breast cancer model. Results: Low-dose vitamin C alone produced minimal cytotoxic effects, whereas its combination with electroporation significantly reduced cell viability and increased apoptotic and necrotic cell death in vitro. In vivo, vitamin C–assisted electrochemotherapy resulted in pronounced tumor growth suppression, with tumor volumes reduced to approximately 0.34-fold of baseline by day 15, accompanied by decreased proliferation and marked tissue disruption. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that uniform-field reversible electroporation markedly enhances the intracellular delivery and antitumor activity of low-dose vitamin C, supporting this technology-driven strategy as a promising, low-toxicity alternative to conventional chemotherapeutic agents in electrochemotherapy for solid tumors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drug Delivery and Nanocarrier)
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24 pages, 3694 KB  
Article
Electrospun PVA Nanofibers Co-Loaded with Atorvastatin and Zinc Oxide for Antibacterial and In Vitro Wound Healing Applications
by Rawan Fitaihi, Alanoud Altalal, Rihaf Alfaraj, Fai Alkathiri, Riyad F. Alzhrani, Shumukh Aldawsari, Shouq Alorayyidh, Meshal Alnefaie, Nojoud Al Fayez and Njoud Altuwaijri
Biomedicines 2026, 14(3), 724; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14030724 - 20 Mar 2026
Viewed by 818
Abstract
Background: The global rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has created an urgent need for innovative antibacterial strategies and localized delivery systems. This study aimed to develop and characterize electrospun poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofibers co-loaded with atorvastatin (ATR) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles [...] Read more.
Background: The global rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has created an urgent need for innovative antibacterial strategies and localized delivery systems. This study aimed to develop and characterize electrospun poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofibers co-loaded with atorvastatin (ATR) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles for use as a multifunctional topical platform for wound healing and infection control. Methods: ZnO nanoparticles were prepared via ball milling and characterized for size and zeta potential. Four PVA-based nanofiber formulations were fabricated using electrospinning: blank (F1), ZnO-loaded (F2), ATR-loaded (F3), and ATR/ZnO co-loaded (F4). The nanofibers were evaluated for morphology, thermal properties, crystallinity, and drug release. Antibacterial efficacy was tested against S. aureus, S. epidermidis, MRSA, and P. aeruginosa using broth microdilution and checkerboard assays. Biocompatibility and wound healing potential were assessed via MTT and fibroblast scratch assays on human foreskin fibroblasts (hFFs). Results: SEM imaging confirmed the production of uniform, bead-free nanofibers. ATR and ZnO nanoparticles were successfully incorporated in the nanofiber. The co-loaded formulation (F4) demonstrated a sustained release profile, releasing approximately 78.7% of ATR over 24 h. While all treatments showed limited activity against P. aeruginosa, the ATR/ZnO co-loaded nanofibers exhibited significantly enhanced antibacterial activity against Gram-positive strains, achieving the lowest MIC values (1.5–2.0 mg/mL). Synergy analysis confirmed an enhanced effect with ATR and ZnO against MRSA. Furthermore, F4 achieved the highest wound closure rate of 92.41% in 24 h while maintaining acceptable cytocompatibility. Conclusions: The integration of ATR and ZnO into PVA nanofibers provides an enhanced antibacterial effect consistent with the synergistic potential observed between free agents targeting Gram-positive wound pathogens. The platform’s ability to simultaneously inhibit bacterial growth and promote rapid fibroblast migration positions it as a promising localized therapeutic for managing infected wounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drug Delivery and Nanocarrier)
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25 pages, 5765 KB  
Article
Innovative Inclusion Complexes Clotrimazole: Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin-Modified Polyurethane Networks as Carriers for Slow Drug Delivery
by Suzana M. Cakić, Snežana S. Ilić-Stojanović, Ljubiša B. Nikolić, Vesna D. Nikolić, Ivan S. Ristić, Gordana S. Marković and Nada Č. Nikolić
Biomedicines 2026, 14(3), 666; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14030666 - 14 Mar 2026
Viewed by 636
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Inclusion complexes among drugs and cyclodextrin-modified polymers are a topic of recent interest in pharmaceutical research and industry as they might expand the solubility, bioavailability, and stability of the guest molecules. Polyurethanes derived from cyclodextrins show some biomedical applications. In this [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Inclusion complexes among drugs and cyclodextrin-modified polymers are a topic of recent interest in pharmaceutical research and industry as they might expand the solubility, bioavailability, and stability of the guest molecules. Polyurethanes derived from cyclodextrins show some biomedical applications. In this study, two cross-linked polyurethane networks based on hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) and polyethylene glycols (PEG 2000 or PEG 6000) were synthesized with NCO/OH molar ratio 4.3 and 6.3 by the typical two-step polymerization method. Methods: Inclusion complexes of clotrimazole (CLOT) with two HPβCD-modified polyurethane networks and their corresponding physical mixtures were prepared using kneading methods and physical mixing in a 1:6 weight ratio of CLOT:HPβCD. Results: Obtained prepolymers, previously end-capped with isocyanate groups forming urethane links with HPβCD, which were confirmed by FTIR analysis. TGA results indicate a slight increase in thermal stability of the prepared complexes. The characteristic endothermic peak of the CLOT at around 145.90 °C did not appear in the DSC curve of the drug-loaded inclusion complexes. The XRD patterns of physical mixtures showed specific peaks corresponding to pure clotrimazole. SEM micrographs confirmed an elliptical/spherical- and plate-shaped particles without phase segregation, indirectly confirming that CLOT is not separately present due to inclusion into HPβCD and entrapment into polyurethane networks. Novel complexes PUR2/HPβCD-CLOT-IC and PUR3/HPβCD-CLOT-IC were applied as drug carriers, and diffusion-controlled kinetics of CLOT release were best described using Higuchi model. Conclusions: The obtained in vitro results showed surprisingly slow/prolonged clotrimazole release from modified polyurethane networks due to the significant influence of NCO/OH molar ratio and the chosen polyol soft segments chain length with potential in vivo applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drug Delivery and Nanocarrier)
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Review

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24 pages, 9151 KB  
Review
RNA-Loaded Nanoparticles for Targeted Lung Delivery
by Mark John Siringan, Xiaoyang Chen and Jiawei Huo
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1069; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051069 - 8 May 2026
Viewed by 1053
Abstract
The lung represents a promising yet underexploited target for RNA therapeutics due to its large surface area and accessibility via non-invasive inhalation delivery. Despite rapid advances in RNA-based modalities, including small interfering RNA (siRNA), microRNA (miRNA), messenger RNA (mRNA), and CRISPR-Cas systems, efficient [...] Read more.
The lung represents a promising yet underexploited target for RNA therapeutics due to its large surface area and accessibility via non-invasive inhalation delivery. Despite rapid advances in RNA-based modalities, including small interfering RNA (siRNA), microRNA (miRNA), messenger RNA (mRNA), and CRISPR-Cas systems, efficient pulmonary delivery remains a major challenge. Multiple biological barriers, such as mucus and surfactant layers, mucociliary clearance, immune surveillance, and limited cellular uptake of negatively charged nucleic acids, significantly restrict therapeutic efficacy. In addition, aerosolization processes may introduce mechanical stress, compromising RNA integrity. Nanoparticle-based delivery systems have emerged as a central strategy to address these limitations. By protecting RNA cargo, enhancing mucus penetration, and promoting cellular internalization, engineered nanoparticles enable more effective pulmonary delivery. In this review, we adopt a barrier-centered perspective to examine the key biological obstacles to lung-targeted RNA delivery and highlight recent advances in nanoparticle-mediated strategies, with a focus on lipid nanoparticles, polymeric systems, and inorganic nanomaterials. We further discuss design principles that govern RNA stability, transport, and intracellular release and critically compare the strengths, limitations, and translational potential of each platform, including considerations of toxicity, biodegradability, and clinical readiness. Finally, we outline emerging clinical applications of RNA-loaded nanoparticles, using lung cancer as a representative disease model, and discuss remaining challenges and future directions. Continued innovation in nanoparticle engineering and delivery strategies is expected to accelerate the clinical translation of RNA therapeutics for pulmonary diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drug Delivery and Nanocarrier)
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25 pages, 2539 KB  
Review
The Current State of the Art in PAMAM and PLL Dendrimers, Boron Clusters, and Their Complexes for Biomedical Use
by Agnieszka Maria Kołodziejczyk, Edyta Błaszczyk and Bolesław T. Karwowski
Biomedicines 2026, 14(3), 615; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14030615 - 10 Mar 2026
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1037
Abstract
Poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) and poly-L-lysine (PLL) dendrimers have emerged as highly versatile macromolecular platforms with significant potential in biomedical applications, owing to their well-defined architecture, tunable surface chemistry, and capacity for multivalent functionalization. Their ability to carry substantial molecular payloads and to [...] Read more.
Poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) and poly-L-lysine (PLL) dendrimers have emerged as highly versatile macromolecular platforms with significant potential in biomedical applications, owing to their well-defined architecture, tunable surface chemistry, and capacity for multivalent functionalization. Their ability to carry substantial molecular payloads and to be engineered for selective interactions with biological systems has positioned them as attractive candidates for targeted drug delivery, including the transport of boron-rich compounds. Recent advances in dendrimer chemistry have enabled the incorporation of boron clusters into PAMAM and PLL structures, creating hybrid systems designed to enhance cellular uptake, improve tumor selectivity, and increase boron accumulation within malignant tissues. Given the growing interest in boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT), the integration of boron clusters into dendrimer structures represents a particularly promising direction for enhancing boron delivery to tumors. This manuscript reviews current knowledge on PAMAM and PLL dendrimers and their boron-functionalized derivatives, summarizing findings from cell culture studies, in vivo models, and clinical or preclinical investigations. Particular attention is given to both the advantageous properties of these dendrimers—such as improved delivery efficiency and biocompatibility—and their potential undesirable biological effects. As such, PAMAM and PLL dendrimers represent an important and evolving class of carriers that may significantly advance the effectiveness of boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) in cancer treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drug Delivery and Nanocarrier)
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