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Nanotechnology in Pharmaceutical Science

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 Nanotechnology in Pharmaceutical Science
*Mojabir Hussen Ansari1, Ravi Ranjan Yadav2, Dr. Ajeet Singh1
1
Assistant Professor, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences,
J. S. University, Shikohabad, Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh, 283135.
1
Dean & Director, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences,
J. S. University, Shikohabad, Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh, 283135.
2
Assistant Professor, Ram Sharan Roy College of Pharmacy,
Panapur, Makkanpur, Jandaha, Vaishali, Bihar, 844505.

Abstract:

Nanotechnology has emerged as a groundbreaking field in pharmaceutical science,

revolutionizing drug delivery, diagnostics, and therapy. Nanobiotechnology is a relatively
unexplored area that has, nevertheless, shown relevant results in the fight against some
diseases. Nanotechnology has been identified as the dominant and most commercially invented
technology that aims to improve the quality of health care strategies. Nanoparticles are utilized
in drug delivery, gene therapy, medical diagnosis, drug discovery, stent formation, and
biosensor technology. At the heart of this remarkable progress lies the manipulation of
materials at the nanoscale, typically within the range of 1-100 nanometres. The extraordinary
properties of nanoparticles and nanoscale systems have catalysed groundbreaking advances
that hold the potential to address longstanding challenges in pharmaceuticals. This article
provides an overview of nanotechnology in pharmaceutical science, its applications,
mechanisms, applications and future trends.

Key Words: Nanotechnology, Formulation, Application.

Introduction:

Nanotechnology, the manipulation of materials at the nanoscale (typically 1-100 nanometres),

has brought about a paradigm shift in pharmaceutical science. The unique properties of
nanoparticles, such as their high surface area-to-volume ratio, improved solubility, and the
ability to target specific cells or tissues, have enabled significant advancements in drug

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development, drug delivery systems, and diagnostic techniques. Nano-technology has emerged
as a revolutionary and multifaceted field in pharmaceutical science, redefining the way we
develop, deliver, and administer medications. At the heart of this innovation is the manipulation
of materials at the nanoscale. The extraordinary properties and potentials of nanoparticles,
ranging from their minuscule size to their unique behaviours, have ushered in a new dawn of
innovation, transcending the boundaries of conventional pharmaceutical practices. In this
comprehensive exploration, we navigate the vast spectrum of applications that nanotechnology
has bestowed upon the pharmaceutical landscape, delve into the intricate mechanisms
underlying its profound successes, and peer into the exciting future trends that promise to
reshape the very fabric of medicine as we know it [1].

Nanoscience is the only platform to discover the new properties of matter by collaborating
with conventional fields such as applied health, molecular chemistry, molecular science,
pharmaceutical science, optics, and even engineering. In the recent few decades, the
combination of science and technology are often well architected to defence the challenges in
the field of medicinal and health sciences by providing a more effective health system, nano-
medicinal tools, and therapeutic approaches. Historically, the term nanotechnology was first
time coined in 1974 by Professor N. Taniguchi. Soon after, Drexler developed and published
the first concept (Feynman’s ideas) of nanotechnology in the book entitled “Vehicles of
creation: the arrival of the nanotechnology era” in 1986. Currently, the impact of
nanotechnology on human and animal can be arising new avenue for investigation and
transformation of health science and becomes the imperative subject for consideration as a
therapeutic tool. Nanotechnology is a very shady multidisciplinary area invented to engineering
biological matters such as atoms, molecules, and supramolecules at nanoscale range approx 1–
100 nm to hold promise against existing challenges by creating new devices and
characterisation of material structure technologies with unique properties to study and
understand the lethal biological problems followed by diagnosis and cure of disease.

Nanotechnology has highlighted as the most dominating and commercially invented

technology of these decades, considerably being very crucial for human lives. Of note, living
cells component are extremely crucial machinery with very tiny size (nanoscale). They are
robustly involved in almost all biological activity, including cell signalling, metabolism, energy

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production, and nutrient transport. Therefore, it can be deemed that nanotechnology as an
essential candidate that can offer new technologies at the individual matter level to deal with
biology and medicine for therapeutic purposes.

In the recent few years, nanomaterials, preferentially metal nanoparticles, have received more
attention in the diverse area of medical science. Optimising the synthesis of nanomaterials such
as polymers, micelles, dendrimers, liposomes, emulsions, nano capsules, and nanoparticles has
now become a prolific area of study. In the current scenario, nanomedicine is one of the leading
applications of nanotechnology, which committed to developing nanoscale medicinal tools to
provide an effective health care system. This approach allows us to understand human
physiology in a better way to fight against several deadly diseases such as cancer and
cardiovascular diseases. The significance of nanomedicine is mainly applied for imaging,
diagnosis of diseases, tissue engineering, and architecting more efficient, cost-effective and
safe drug delivery systems to precisely delivering drugs to target sites which can accelerate
treatment outcome via reducing off-target effect and toxicities.

Nanotechnology can hold promise to promote revolutionary advances in medicine,

communications, genomics, and robotics in human health, which can result in immense clinical
benefits. It is very vast and diverse to discuss and explore the whole nanotechnology
application. Still, in contrast to this, the most significant advantage of nanotechnology tools
and products may have great values in human health in global contexts [2].

Types of Nanotechnology in Pharmaceutical Science:

1. Nanoparticles: Nanoparticles, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and metal

nanoparticles, are widely used as drug carriers. They can encapsulate drugs, protect them
from degradation, and release them at a controlled rate, improving drug efficacy and
reducing side effects.

Nanoparticles are classified according to their dimensionality, morphology, state, and

chemical composition. Nanoparticles are a class of material under nanotechnology
containing substances in the form of particle size around 10–100 nm. These materials are
broadly divided into various dimensions such as 0D, 1D, according to some finding, these
materials, size can influence the physiochemical visualisation (optical properties) of
substances like gold (Au), platinum (Pt), silver (Ag), and palladium (Pd) NPs have

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 characteristic wine-red colour, yellowish-grey, black and dark black colours, respectively.
NPs are constructed of three structural parts First, surface layer, which may be
functionalized with a variety of small molecules, metal ions, surfactants, and polymers.
Second, the shell layer, unlike core, this structure is a chemically diverse material, and the
third is the core, which is essentially the central part of the NP and is usually termed as NP
itself. The NPs can be used in the biomedical system for several health purposes including
drug delivery chemical and biological sensing gas sensing, CO2 capturing and other related
applications. Based on nanoparticles’ chemical properties, they are typically classified in the
following material-based categories, namely organic, inorganic, and carbon-based [3].

1.1 Organic matter-based NPs

Classically, these types of NPs are mostly organic-based. Nanoparticles utilize noncovalent
interaction for the self-assembly and design of molecules which facilitate the transformation
of organic NPs/nanomaterials (NMs) into the specific desired structures, including
dendrimers, micelles, liposomes, and ferritin or polymers. These NPs are very specific due
to their biodegradable and non-toxic effect. Some NPs like micelles and liposomes
containing hollow core, which are known as nanocapsules and are sensitive to thermal and
electromagnetic radiation such as heat and light. These exceptional presentation and
characteristics make them an ideal candidate for targeted drug delivery in the biomedical
system.

1.2 Inorganic matter-based NPs

Inorganic NPs are not made up of carbon skeleton. Mainly, metal ions (Al, Cd, Co, Cu, Au,
Fe, Pb, Ag, and Zn) and metal oxide are involved in the formulation of inorganic NPs. Of
which, metal-based NPs are produced by nanometric size metals via two methods, namely
destructive and constructive. These NPs are carrying various distinctive properties such as
sizes (10 nm–100nm), high surface area to volume ratio, pore size, surface charge, and
surface charge density, crystalline and amorphous structures, spherical and cylindrical
shapes. Inorganic NPs are sensitive to atmospheric factors like air, moisture, heat, and
sunlight. Unlike metal-based, metal oxide-based inorganic NPs are synthesised in the
presence of oxygen via the oxidation of metals to generate Aluminium oxide (Al2O3),
Cerium oxide (CeO2), Iron oxide (Fe2O3), Magnetite (Fe3O4), Silicon dioxide (SiO2),

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 Titanium oxide (TiO2), Zinc oxide (ZnO). Metal oxide NPs are synthesised mainly due to
their increased reactivity and efficiency. The silent feature of these NPs is their
bioavailability which provides them highly active and more specific surface area, which can
be simply altered by several chemical reactions like a polymer chain, coupling agent, or
doping metal ions [4].

1.3 Carbon-based NPs

Carbon-based NPs have unique features and play a key role in many interdisciplinary fields.
These NPs are mainly made of carbon particles. Carbon-based NPs show several individual
chemicals, physical and mechanical properties, including chemical stability, conductivity,
and thermal properties. Hence, these NPs are grabbing much more attention and are known
for their several applications. Carbon-based NPs are classified into the following categories,
namely carbon nanotubes (CNT), carbon nanofibers, fullerenes (C60), graphene, and carbon
black. Of which, fullerenes are spherical and made up of carbon material by sp2
hybridization. They mainly used as a contrasting agent in medical imaging, cosmetics
science for antiaging, catalysts for water purification, photovoltaics, methane conversion,
electronics, and reinforcement for composites. Graphene is an allotrope of carbon atoms. It
is not yet manufactured for utilization purposes and still in the development process. Some
authors depicted their application, including reinforcement for polymer matrix composites,
solar cells, organic LEDs, hydrogen storage for fuel cells, electronic components with a
higher electron speed than with silicon, electron storage for supercapacitors; gas separation
membranes, sensors. Graphene nano foil is utilized to synthesize carbon Nanofiber as
carbon nanotubes (CNT) and wound into a cone or cup shape. They are used in field electron
emission sources, as scanning electron microscope tips, and as composite reinforcement.
Unlike Graphene nano foil in CNT, carbon atoms are wound into hollow cylinders to form
single and multilayered CNT of various lengths and self-aligned under van der Waals force
. They have multiple applications such as reinforcement for composites, tips for atomic force
microscopes, and scaffolds for bone growth. Carbon black is generally spherical and made
of amorphous carbon material. Carbon black is mixed with polymers elastomers as a
mechanical reinforcement, heat, UV absorber, antistatic agent, and electricity conductor [5].

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2. Nano-emulsions: Nano emulsions are colloidal systems that enhance drug solubility and
bioavailability. They find application in oral, transdermal, and intravenous drug delivery.

Nano emulsion is a specialized type of emulsion, a colloidal system in which tiny droplets
of one liquid are dispersed within another liquid, typically water and oil. What distinguishes
nano emulsions from conventional emulsions is the incredibly small size of the droplets,
which are typically in the nanometre range (typically between 20 and 200 nanometres). This
small droplet size imparts unique and valuable properties to nano emulsions, making them
a versatile and valuable tool in various industries.

Nano emulsions are created through a process called emulsification, which involves
breaking down the two immiscible liquids (usually oil and water) into very small droplets.
This can be achieved through mechanical means like high-pressure homogenization,
ultrasonication, or through the use of surfactants and stabilizers. The choice of
emulsification method and components can be tailored to create nano emulsions with
specific characteristics, such as droplet size, stability, and composition.

The small droplet size in nano emulsions leads to several advantages:

1. Enhanced Stability: Nano emulsions are kinetically stable, meaning the small droplet size
prevents them from coalescing and separating over time. This stability makes them suitable
for a wide range of applications, from pharmaceuticals to food products.

2. Improved Bioavailability: In pharmaceuticals, nano emulsions can enhance the

bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs by increasing their surface area, allowing for
better absorption in the body.

3. Transparency: Nano emulsions are typically translucent or transparent, which is desirable

in applications like clear beverages and pharmaceutical formulations where a clear
appearance is essential.

4. Flavour and Aroma Preservation: In the food industry, nano emulsions can encapsulate
and protect sensitive compounds like flavors and fragrances, preserving their integrity and
releasing them gradually when consumed.

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5. Controlled Release: Nano emulsions can be engineered to release their encapsulated
contents gradually, offering controlled release of active ingredients in various applications,
including drug delivery systems.

6. Enhanced Texture: In the cosmetic and personal care industry, nano emulsions can improve
the texture and feel of products like lotions and creams.

7. Improved Solubility: Nano emulsions can solubilize hydrophobic substances, making them
useful for formulating a wide range of products, from pharmaceuticals to pesticides.

3. Nanoscale Drug Formulations: Pharmaceutical scientists have developed nanoscale drug

formulations, including nano-suspensions and nanocrystals, to enhance the dissolution and
absorption of poorly water-soluble drugs [6].

Applications of Nanotechnology in Pharmaceutical Science:

1. Drug Delivery Systems: One of the most impactful applications of nanotechnology is in the
development of advanced drug delivery systems. Nanoparticles, such as liposomes, can
encapsulate therapeutic agents, protecting them from degradation and enabling controlled
release. This not only enhances the efficacy of drugs but also reduces side effects. Moreover,
nanocarriers can be engineered to pass through biological barriers, opening up new avenues
for drug delivery to the brain and other challenging sites.

2. Improved Drug Solubility: Poor solubility is a common issue with many pharmaceutical
compounds. Nanoscale drug formulations, including nano-suspensions and nanocrystals,
overcome this challenge by enhancing drug solubility and absorption. These formulations
are pivotal for maximizing the bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs.

3. Targeted Drug Delivery: Nanotechnology enables precise targeting of drugs to specific cells
or tissues. By functionalizing nanoparticles with ligands that bind to specific cell surface
receptors, pharmaceutical scientists can ensure that drugs are delivered exactly where they
are needed, minimizing off-target effects and improving therapeutic efficacy. This targeted
drug delivery approach has proven particularly effective in cancer therapy.

4. Diagnostic Nanoparticles: Nanotechnology has revolutionized diagnostics by introducing

nanoparticles that can be used as contrast agents in imaging techniques like MRI and CT

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 scans. These contrast agents improve the visualization of tissues and provide valuable
information for early disease detection.

5. Personalized Medicine: The ability to design and create patient-specific drug formulations
is a growing application of nanotechnology. This allows healthcare providers to tailor
treatments to individual patient characteristics, optimizing therapeutic outcomes and
reducing the risk of adverse reactions.

6. Theranostics: Combining therapeutic and diagnostic functions within the same nanoparticle,
theranostic agents offer real-time monitoring of disease progression and treatment response.
These multifunctional nanoparticles are an exciting area of research, with the potential to
make healthcare more patient-centric and effective.

7. Gene Editing and mRNA Vaccines: Nanocarriers play a vital role in delivering gene-editing
tools like CRISPR-Cas9 and mRNA-based vaccines. The precision and efficiency of
nanocarriers are crucial for advancing gene therapy and developing highly effective
vaccines for infectious diseases.

8. Immunotherapy: Nanoparticles can enhance the delivery of immunotherapeutic agents,

increasing the body's immune response against cancer and infectious diseases. This
application holds great promise for the future of healthcare.

Future Trends: The future of nanotechnology in pharmaceutical science is rich with

potential:

1. Personalized Medicine: The intersection of nanotechnology and pharmaceuticals is enabling

the development of personalized drug formulations. These tailored treatments optimize
therapeutic outcomes, reduce adverse reactions, and represent a major shift towards
individualized healthcare.

2. Theranostics: The fusion of therapeutic and diagnostic capabilities within nanoparticles

leads to the development of theranostic agents. These agents enable real-time monitoring of
disease progression and treatment response, allowing for more effective and patient-centric
healthcare strategies.

3. Gene Editing and mRNA Vaccines: Nanocarriers play a pivotal role in the delivery of gene-
editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9 and mRNA-based vaccines. This contribution is

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 revolutionizing gene therapy and advancing the development of highly effective vaccines
for infectious diseases.

4. Immunotherapy: Enhanced delivery systems, facilitated by nanotechnology, are boosting

the efficacy of immunotherapeutic agents. This has the potential to transform the treatment
of cancer and infectious diseases by enhancing the body's immune response, a promising
avenue for the future [7].

Conclusion:

In conclusion, nanotechnology is fundamentally transforming pharmaceutical science by

introducing innovative drug delivery systems, enhancing drug performance, and facilitating the
adoption of personalized medicine. As research in this field continues to advance, the
pharmaceutical landscape holds great promise for the development of more effective treatments
and precision diagnostics. Nanotechnology's transformative potential is a driving force in the
pursuit of advanced pharmaceutical solutions, ultimately leading to improved global healthcare
outcomes and patient well-being. This integration of nanotechnology with pharmaceutical
science is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and technological
innovation.

References:

1. S. Chen, et al., Nanomaterials in medicine and pharmaceuticals: nanoscale materials

developed with less toxicity and more efficacy, Eur. J. Nanomed. 5 (2) (2013) 61.
2. M. Chandarana, A. Curtis, C. Hoskins, The use of nanotechnology in cardiovascular
disease, Appl. Nanosci. 8 (7) (2018) 1607–1619.
3. M. Mozafari, Nanotechnology in wound care: one step closer to the clinic, Mol. Ther. :
J. Am. Soc. Gene Ther. 26 (9) (2018) 2085–2086.
4. D. Bobo, et al., Nanoparticle-based medicines: a review of FDA-approved materials
and clinical trials to date, Pharm. Res. (N. Y.) 33 (10) (2016) 2373–2387.
5. M.A. Obeid, et al., Delivering natural products and biotherapeutics to improve drug
efficacy, Ther. Deliv. 8 (11) (2017) 947–956.
6. R. Devulapally, R. Paulmurugan, Polymer nanoparticles for drug and small silencing
RNA delivery to treat cancers of different phenotypes, Wiley Interdiscipl. Rev.
Nanomed. Nanobiotechnol. 6 (1) (2014) 40–60.

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