Recent approaches in nanotoxicity assessment for drug delivery applications: Challenges and prospects

Abstract

Nanoparticles have emerged as a promising tool in the field of drug delivery, offering targeted and controlled release of therapeutic agents. However, the increasing use of nanoparticles has raised concerns about their potential toxicity and adverse effects on human health and the environment. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the recent approaches in nanotoxicity assessment for drug delivery applications, highlighting the challenges and future prospects in this rapidly evolving field. The article explores into the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying nanoparticle toxicity, including oxidative stress, inflammation, genotoxicity, and neurotoxicity. The importance of nanoparticle characterization and the role of physicochemical properties, such as size, shape, surface chemistry, and composition, in determining their toxicological profile are emphasized. The article also discusses the current trends in nanotoxicity assessment, focusing on advanced in vitro and in vivo models, high-throughput screening techniques, and the use of alternative animal models, such as zebrafish and C. elegans. The regulatory landscape surrounding nanotoxicology is explored, emphasizing the need for standardized testing protocols and risk assessment frameworks. Furthermore, the article highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, integrating expertise from fields such as material science, toxicology, and pharmacology, to address the complexities of nanotoxicity assessment. By providing a critical analysis of the current state of nanotoxicity research and identifying key knowledge gaps, this review article aims to guide future research efforts and contribute to the development of safer and more effective nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems.