Pulmonary surfactant's interaction with nanocarriers: Nanoscale structural and functional effects

Abstract

This review provides an overview of experimental and computational results on the interaction between nanocarriers of different natures and pulmonary surfactant models that have appeared in the literature in the last five years. The purpose is to highlight the changes in the nanoscopic structure and functionality of the pulmonary surfactant layer due to the interaction with nanocarriers and nanoparticles, which are inorganic, polymeric, or consist of biomolecules. The information gathered contributes to the development of carriers' nanotechnology, thus allowing specific and controlled drug delivery while being minimally invasive by crossing pulmonary surfactant without altering its structure and function.