Nanotechnology-Driven Strategy Against Viral Infections

Dear Colleagues,

Viral infections continue to pose global health challenges, as evidenced by pandemics such as HIV, HPV, herpes, influenza, respiratory viruses and COVID-19. Traditional therapies using classical antiviral drugs often face limitations including resistance, poor targeting, and systemic toxicity. Nanotechnology offers innovative solutions for preventing, diagnosing, and treating viral diseases, predominately through drug delivery using nanocarriers such as nanoparticles (polymeric, lipid, metallic, ceramic, mesoporous silica, and composite), liposomes, nanoemulsions, dendrimers, and quantum dots. In addition to classic antiviral delivery systems, other therapies are available, such as gene silencing strategies, immunomodulation, nanovaccines, photodynamic therapy, and combination therapies. Nanocarriers are capable of transporting and sustaining the release of classical antivirals, improving the bioavailability of active compounds and reducing adverse effects. Other active compounds can be encapsulated in nanocarriers, such as vaccine antigens, interfering RNA (siRNA), and photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy. Metallic nanoparticles of copper, silver, zinc oxide, and gold can additionally be used to combat viruses. Furthermore, nanocarriers can be administered topically for the treatment of skin and mucosal viruses or into the bloodstream to induce systemic effects. Nanotechnology is revolutionizing the development of antiviral strategies for therapy, diagnosis, and prevention. Some challenges, however, still prevail, particularly in scaling up production; sufficient quantities of nanomaterials, following the Good Practices guidelines established by regulatory agencies, are needed to support clinical studies.

Prof. Dr. Eduardo Ricci-Júnior
Guest Editor

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