Abstract

The development of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems represents a major step forward in pharmaceutical science, with the goal of enhancing treatment effectiveness while ensuring patient safety. Among these systems, polymeric nanoparticles-especially those made from biodegradable materials-have gained considerable interest due to their biocompatibility and versatile structural properties. Through careful formulation approaches, including surface modification, appropriate polymer selection, and optimization of physicochemical properties, these carriers can achieve sustained and controlled drug release. Such controlled release helps maintain stable drug levels in the bloodstream, reduces dosing frequency, and minimizes adverse effects. Furthermore, incorporating targeting strategies allows for more precise drug delivery by promoting accumulation at specific sites of action. In addition, advanced stimuli-responsive systems introduce an extra level of regulation, enabling drug release in response to specific biological triggers like pH changes, temperature variations, or enzymatic activity. This review highlights key design principles, explores mechanisms underlying controlled and targeted delivery, and discusses the growing importance of smart polymeric systems in the evolving field of nanomedicine.