Nanotechnology has become an essential tool in modern medicine, enabling targeted drug delivery, improved bioavailability, and controlled release of therapeutics. A recent systematic review published in J Nanobiotechnology (2025) provides a comprehensive overview of nanocarriers, their applications, and a proposed framework for categorizing these advanced materials. The study highlights how nanocarriers are transforming medicine, agriculture, and industrial products, while also addressing safety and environmental concerns associated with their widespread use.

What Are Nanocarriers?

Nanocarriers are engineered transport and encapsulation systems designed to protect, enhance, and precisely deliver active ingredients to targeted sites in the body. They range in size from 1 to 1000 nanometers (nm) and are primarily composed of organic, inorganic, or hybrid materials. Their unique properties make them valuable for a range of applications, including:

• Medicine: Drug delivery, gene therapy, imaging contrast agents
• Cosmetics: Enhanced skincare formulations
• Agriculture: Nano-agrochemicals for targeted pesticide or fertilizer release
• Industrial Use: Air fresheners, lithium-ion batteries, and coatings

Key Findings from the Systematic Review

1. Advanced Material Design for Specific Applications

   • Most nanocarriers are rationally designed to meet specific functional requirements.
   • Researchers are developing hybrid nanocarriers combining organic and inorganic components for enhanced performance.

2. Improved Drug Delivery and Bioavailability

   • Nanocarriers increase drug solubility (especially for hydrophobic drugs) and enable controlled, sustained release at the target site.
   • Their targeted action minimizes systemic side effects, making treatments safer and more effective.

3. Environmental Concerns and Risk Assessment

   • As nanocarriers expand into agriculture and industry, they may enter the environment in large quantities (e.g., via nano-agrochemicals or aerosolized products).
   • The study proposes a categorization framework based on chemical composition and function to help assess risks and ensure regulatory compliance.

Implications for Medical and Pharmaceutical Research

• Drug Development: Nanocarriers can enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy, antibiotics, and vaccines by ensuring targeted delivery.
• Personalized Medicine: Future research may focus on customizing nanocarriers to patient-specific conditions, leading to precision medicine approaches.
• Regulatory Considerations: As nanocarriers become more prevalent, researchers and healthcare policymakers must ensure safety and regulatory compliance before widespread clinical use.

Conclusion

This systematic review underscores the transformative role of nanocarriers in medicine and beyond. While these advanced materials offer significant benefits in drug delivery and industrial applications, further research is needed to assess long-term safety, environmental impact, and optimal design for different medical applications. As nanotechnology advances, nanocarriers hold the potential to redefine targeted therapy, improve patient outcomes, and expand medical innovation.

Would you like to explore how nanocarriers can be integrated into your medical research or practice? Stay updated with New Clinician for the latest breakthroughs in nanomedicine and biomedical research!