Applying Nanoparticles in the Treatment of Viral Infections and Toxicological Considerations

Abstract

Background: Despite the tremendous progress in human medicine, viral infections can cause death in them. Due to the high prevalence of viruses, it is required to develop novel treatment strategies and provide the site-specific delivery of antiviral agents at the viral reservoirs. Objectives: Particle size is a vital physical characteristic that can affect the bioavailability and circulation time of nanoparticles. The ratio of large surface area and volume of nanoparticle could enhance the solubility of poorly soluble drug compounds. Methods: Therefore, the optimum surface charge of the nanoparticle with the possibility of encapsulation and large drug cargo, are some of the nanoformulation advantages of these agents. Results: This study reviewed various nanocarriers and modern smart delivery technologies, such as liposomes and immunoliposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, nanosuspensions, dendrimers, solid lipid nanoparticles, and so on. Conclusion: We aimed to overcome the problems of traditional formulations and resistance to currently available therapies in various infections. Moreover, the concerns about the potential toxicities of nanoparticles to humans have been raised; therefore, the present study has reviewed the toxicity effects of nanoparticles used in controlling viral infections.

Keywords

• nanoparticles
• drug delivery
• nanomedicine
• toxicity
• antiviral