Polymeric nanoparticles in radiopharmaceutical delivery strategies

Abstract

The potential applications of polymer nanoparticles (NPs) in the biomedical field have been the subject of extensive research. Radiopharmaceuticals that combine radionuclides and drugs using polymer nanoparticles (NPs) as carriers can be externally labelled, internally labelled or interfacially labelled with radionuclides at different sites. Consequently, they can be employed as delivery agents for a range of diseases. Currently, polymeric nanoparticles can deliver isotopes via active targeting, passive targeting and stimuli-responsive release systems. The objective is to deliver drugs and nuclides to the target site in an efficient manner, thereby maximizing efficacy and minimizing side effects. The development of drug release systems has the potential to address the growing social and economic challenges currently facing modern healthcare. This paper presents a detailed synthesis of the methods used to create polymer nanoparticles (NPs) and strategies for the targeted delivery of radiopharmaceuticals with radionuclides labelled at different locations. Additionally, the paper outlines the current progress of polymer NPs for use in imaging and therapeutic applications, as well as the future challenges that lie ahead in this field.