Multifunctional Nanoparticles for Gene and Drug Co-delivery via the Pulmonary Route: Difficulties and Advancements

Abstract: Pulmonary drug delivery systems are targeted therapies for respiratory conditions that
deliver drugs directly to the lungs for increased bioavailability and faster action. The selection of the
pulmonary route is based on its rapid absorption, which avoids the liver's first-pass metabolism. The
approach involves studying how these nanoparticles help encapsulate drugs, shield them from deterioration,
and improve their absorption into the lungs. These problems are being addressed by recent
developments in improved targeting techniques, surface alterations, and particle size optimization,
which are improving stability, release, and distribution. Inhalable dry powder formulations and nanocarriers
for immunotherapy and gene therapy are also encouraging. Still, problems continue, including
formulation stability, industrial scalability, lung toxicity, and patient compliance with breathing
devices. The efficacy of PDDS will depend on resolving these issues with technologies such as Nano
printing, combination therapy, and customized drugs. These developments are anticipated to result in
more practical and successful pulmonary treatments for respiratory conditions with further research.
The focus of this review is the solid lipid nanoparticles, dendrimers, liposomes, and DNA or mRNA
approaches. These NPs help protect drugs from degradation, help encapsulate them, and improve
lung penetration. This review discusses the nanoparticle and gene therapy for the treatment of PDDS.