Biological toxicity of nanoparticles

Abstract

Multiple biological barriers and discrepancy in releasing the optimal dosage range pose a great challenge in the current therapeutic management for majority of diseases. Nanoparticle drug delivery system (5–250 nm) possesses the capacity to overcome such difficulties making it an incredible choice for disease management. Various types of nanoparticles are readily available in the market each possessing its own unique characteristics, however, based on their size, shape, and surface reactivity, they can inflict certain type of toxicity, the most common being biological toxicity to human tissue and to cell culture. The toxicity can further lead to an enhanced level of oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokine. Hence, in the following chapter, we discuss the various types of nanoparticles available, its importance in the clinical field and a detailed understanding on the biological toxicity of nanoparticles.