A Review on Designing Poly (Lactic-co-glycolic Acid) Nanoparticles as Drug Delivery Systems

Abstract

Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is a versatile synthetic polymer comprehensively used in the pharmaceutical sector because of its biocompatibility and biodegradability. These benefits lead to its application in the area of nanoparticles (NPs) for drug delivery for over thirty years. This article offers a general study of the different poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PNPs), preparation methods such as emulsification-solvent evaporation, coacervation, emulsification solvent diffusion, dialysis, emulsification reverse salting out, spray drying nanoprecipitation, and supercritical fluid technology, from the methodological point of view. The physicochemical behavior of PNPs, including morphology, drug loading, particle size and its distribution, surface charge, drug release, stability as well as cytotoxicity study and cellular uptake, are briefly discussed. This survey additionally coordinates to bring a layout of the significant uses of PNPs in different drug delivery system over the three decades. At last, surface modifications of PNPs and PLGA nanocomplexes (NCs) are additionally examined.

Keywords: PLGA nanocomplexes; PLGA nanoparticles; nanoparticles; pharmaceutical applications of PNPs; surface modification of PNPs; synthetic polymer.