Self-assembling nanocomposites for smart drug delivery: towards personalized and stimuli-responsive therapeutics

Abstract

Self-assembling nanocomposites (SANCs) represent a valuable and innovative drug delivery system that facilitates site-specific and stimulus-controlled drug administration. These composites have the capability to self-assemble into stimulus-responsive nanostructures, enabling the effective delivery of a wide range of therapeutic agents, from small molecules to biologics, to specific target sites. This advancement addresses crucial challenges in treating diseases like cancer and chronic inflammatory conditions. In this review, we briefly outline the advantages of SANCs in enhancing bioavailability, reducing systemic toxicity, and maintaining stability under physiological conditions. However, several significant obstacles remain, including challenges related to scalability, stability, storage, biocompatibility, and regulatory approvals that have not been met to obtain clinical applications. Furthermore, we explore the stimuli-responsive and biohybrid materials, as well as the integration of SANCs with artificial intelligence and nanotechnology to create intelligent drug delivery systems. Encouraging contributions for papers that emphasize the role of SANCs in personalized medicine, this review underscores the potential of these nanosystems in developing tailored, patient-specific treatment approaches. By establishing robust policy frameworks and fostering strategic partnerships, SANCs have the potential to usher in a new era of tailored solutions for delivering medications effectively, thereby advancing the field of modern medicine.