Macrophage-Targeted Nanoparticle Delivery Systems

Abstract

Monocytes and macrophages originate from the mononuclear phagocyte system and form the basis of immune defense system of the body. These cells are distributed throughout the body, are highly diverse functionally, and work in conjunction with other cells in restoring the physiological homeostasis. The three major goals of macrophages are phagocytosis, antigen presentation, and modulation of the immune response. With greater understanding of the macrophage biology and role in the body, there is an opportunity to target imaging and therapeutic agents directly to these cells upon local or systemic administration. Multifunctional nanotechnology has already shown tremendous promise in the field of targeted delivery for various diseases. The use of targeted nanosystems is extended to macrophages with the intent to prevent, using effective vaccination or diagnosis, and treat inflammatory diseases, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. In this chapter, we have summarized the role of macrophages, advantage of nanosystems in delivery of vaccines, drugs, and nucleic acid constructs, criteria for macrophage targeting, various nanoplatforms available to target macrophages, and illustrative examples that have shown the imaging and therapeutic benefits of targeting these cells