Polymeric Nanoparticles: Production, Characterization, Toxicology and Ecotoxicology

Abstract

Polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) are particles within the size range from 1 to 1000 nm and can be loaded with active compounds entrapped within or surface-adsorbed onto the polymeric core. The term “nanoparticle” stands for both nanocapsules and nanospheres, which are distinguished by the morphological structure. Polymeric NPs have shown great potential for targeted delivery of drugs for the treatment of several diseases. In this review, we discuss the most commonly used methods for the production and characterization of polymeric NPs, the association efficiency of the active compound to the polymeric core, and the in vitro release mechanisms. As the safety of nanoparticles is a high priority, we also discuss the toxicology and ecotoxicology of nanoparticles to humans and to the environment.

Keywords

Affiliated Institutions

• Polish Academy of Sciences PL
• University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro PT
• University of Minho PT
• Poznan University of Medical Sciences PL
• University of Coimbra PT
• Institute of Human Genetics PL
• University of Naples Federico II IT
• JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research IN

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