Engineered nanoparticles for the detection, treatment and prevention of atherosclerosis: how close are we?

• Published in: Drug discovery today 2017-09, Vol.22 (9), p.1438-1446
• Main Authors: Nguyen, Luong T.H., Muktabar, Aristo, Tang, Jinkai, Dravid, Vinayak P., Thaxton, C. Shad, Venkatraman, Subbu, Ng, Kee Woei
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Animals; Atherosclerosis - diagnosis; Atherosclerosis - drug therapy; Atherosclerosis - prevention & control; Disease Progression; Drug Carriers - administration & dosage; Drug Carriers - therapeutic use; Humans; Nanoparticles - administration & dosage; Nanoparticles - therapeutic use
• ISSN: 1359-6446; 1878-5832
• DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2017.07.006

•Nanomedicine approaches are being explored for managing atherosclerosis.•Functionalized SPION, USPIO and ​polymeric nanoparticles have been used for active imaging.•HDL mimetic nanoparticles and ​high-molecular-weight HA have potential as therapeutics.•Statins, glucocorticoids and siRNAs can be delivered by nanocarriers for treatment.•More-realistic experimental models and more-specific targeting ligands are needed. Atherosclerosis is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Nanotechnology has provided the possibility of designing nanoparticles that can translocate through tissues and home in to atherosclerotic plaques to achieve desired diagnostic, therapeutic, theranostic or ‘theralivery’ outcomes. Although nanomedicine approaches have demonstrated exciting possibilities, clinical reality is still distant and challenges are aplenty, such as specificity of targeting and nanotoxicity. Nevertheless, developments in formulations, delivery strategies and experimental models over the coming years will generate new knowledge to define the true potential of this field. This review discusses the most recent developments, current challenges and future possibilities.