Targeting Cancer by Natural Polymeric Nanoparticles

Delivering a therapeutic agent to the desired site is the major problem in the treatment of many diseases such as cancer. Conventional utilization of drug is characterized by its limited bio-distribution, its side effect, and lack of its selectivity. The poor solubility and large volume of distribution of anticancer drugs are the major problems in cancer therapy. Reducing size of drug and designing it into a suitable formulation and selecting a pathway for drug uptake is fundamental basis of nanotechnology. Great interest of nanoparticles is due their nanometer scale range. Their reduced particle size entails high surface area and hence a strategy for faster release. These particles are capable of deep penetration into the tissue without disrupting its functions. Thus, it has been suggested that nanoparticles should improve the therapeutic efficacy while decreasing the toxic side effects of anticancer drugs. The need for polymers with specific physical and biological properties has generated continued interest in novel polymer screening from natural resources.