Overview of the Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Mucosal Sites for the Delivery of Nanoparticles

Abstract

Nanoparticles (NPs) often improve the efficacy of therapeutic actives, and their delivery to mucosal sites allows for unique and localized effects compared to parenteral delivery. Sites of mucosal surfaces includes the eyes, nasal cavity, lungs, and the entire gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus, and offers extensive areas for the delivery of therapeutics. However, each mucosal site has unique physiological properties that affect aspects such as stability during the transit to the mucosal surface, release of the active molecules, and absorption of NPs into the body. The required NPs properties also differ based on if the goal is for absorption of intact NPs or release of the active molecules at the mucosal site. Therefore, the interaction of the NPs, with the medium that is in contact with the mucosal surface, the mucus layer, and the epithelial cells, must be considered during the formulation process. This chapter focusses on the advantages and disadvantages of delivering NPs through each major mucosal site and offers indications on NPs properties that may be ideal for each site.