Phytosynthesized nanoparticles against viral diseases: Current updates

Nanotechnology has significantly impacted biomedical sciences, particularly in the development of advanced drug delivery systems. By employing nanotechnology, scientists can design bioactive macromolecules that enable cellular or targeted delivery, enhancing bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. Nanoparticles (NPs) stand out as preferred drug delivery systems for chronic and infectious diseases due to their ability to reduce cytotoxicity and side effects associated with conventional drugs. This review focuses on the potential of phytosynthesized nanoparticles (PNPs) as antiviral agents, exploring their synthesis, metabolism, and therapeutic applications in depth.

Nanoparticles or Carriers as Drug Delivery Vehicles

Nanocarriers are nanosized delivery vehicles designed to transport drugs or therapeutic molecules efficiently. These nanocarriers are synthesized from a variety of materials, including lipid micelles, liposomes, protein polymers, carbon, silver, and gold. The primary function of these materials is to facilitate the delivery of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs within the body's aqueous environment. However, inorganic or synthetic nanocarriers may pose toxicity risks if they accumulate in certain cellular organelles, unlike protein-based nanocarriers which exhibit lower cytotoxicity. The field of nanomedicine focuses on optimizing the size, surface properties, and release mechanisms of these nanoparticles to ensure precise site-specific delivery. Among these, polymeric nanoparticles offer significant advantages, such as enhanced drug stability and controlled release, making them particularly effective in drug delivery applications.

Phytosynthesis of Therapeutic Nanoparticles

Phytosynthesis is a green and eco-friendly method of producing nanoparticles using plant extracts. This process is simpler and more scalable compared to bacterial or fungal synthesis methods. Plants are abundant in bioactive phytoconstituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, tannins, and phenolic acids. These compounds act as natural stabilizers and reducing agents for metal ions, eliminating the need for hazardous chemicals. The morphology and size of the synthesized nanoparticles are influenced by various reaction parameters, including the solvent, temperature, pressure, and pH. Phytosynthesized nanoparticles (PNPs) enhance the pharmacokinetics of phytoproducts by improving delivery, solubility, permeability, bioavailability, stability, and metabolism. This eco-friendly approach not only makes the production process safer but also enhances the therapeutic potential of the nanoparticles.

Metabolism of Phytonanoparticles

Bioactive phytochemicals, although highly water-soluble, often suffer from low absorption due to their large molecular sizes, resulting in poor bioavailability. Phytosynthesized nanoparticles (PNPs) address this issue by improving targeted drug delivery, solubility, absorption, bioavailability, and safety without the need for additional ligands. The nanosize of these particles, combined with their prolonged retention time, enhances their permeation through biological barriers. Recent advancements in the field have focused on developing solid-lipid nanoparticles, liquid-crystal systems, and microemulsions to further optimize these properties. These innovative approaches aim to improve therapeutic outcomes and reduce side effects, paving the way for more effective treatments.

Phytosynthesized Antiviral Nanoparticles

Viral diseases continue to be a significant global health burden, necessitating the development of effective antiviral strategies. Phytoproducts and isolated metabolites have demonstrated considerable antiviral properties. Phytosynthesized metal nanoparticles, especially gold (AuNPs) and silver (AgNPs), have shown inhibitory effects against a range of viruses, including HIV, influenza, HSV, chikungunya, hepatitis B, and more. Modifications and functionalizations of these nanoparticles can further enhance their antiviral activities. Despite their potential, the exact mechanisms underlying their antiviral effects remain inadequately understood, highlighting the need for further research to elucidate these mechanisms and optimize their use in antiviral therapies.

Future Directions

The field of nanomedicine and phytosynthesized nanoparticles holds immense promise for the future of antiviral therapies. Ongoing research aims to refine the synthesis, functionalization, and application of these nanoparticles to maximize their therapeutic benefits while minimizing potential risks. Advancements in understanding the interactions between nanoparticles and biological systems will pave the way for more effective and safer antiviral treatments. Future studies will focus on improving the precision of nanoparticle delivery systems, ensuring they target specific cells or tissues while avoiding unintended effects. The integration of nanotechnology with other advanced therapeutic strategies could lead to breakthroughs in the treatment of viral infections and other diseases.

Conclusions

Nanomedicine has addressed significant challenges in drug delivery, solubility, absorption, and cytotoxicity associated with conventional drugs. Phytosynthesized nanoparticles, particularly gold and silver, offer a biocompatible, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution for developing antiviral therapies. These nanoparticles exhibit unique properties that enhance drug delivery and therapeutic efficacy while minimizing side effects. With continued research and development, phytosynthesized nanoparticles have the potential to become integral components of future antiviral treatment regimens, providing effective and targeted solutions against various viral pathogens. The future of antiviral therapy looks promising with the integration of nanotechnology and phytosynthesis, offering new hope in the fight against viral diseases.

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https://www.xiahepublishing.com/2835-6357/FIM-2022-00040

The study was recently published in the Future Integrative Medicine.

Future Integrative Medicine (FIM) publishes both basic and clinical research, including but not limited to randomized controlled trials, intervention studies, cohort studies, observational studies, qualitative and mixed method studies, animal studies, and systematic reviews.

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