Biocompatible Nanomaterials as an Emerging Technology in Reproductive Health; a Focus on the Male

Barbara Fraser; Alexandra E Peters; Jessie M Sutherland; Mingtao Liang; Diane Rebourcet; Brett Nixon; Robert J Aitken

doi:10.3389/fphys.2021.753686

Biocompatible Nanomaterials as an Emerging Technology in Reproductive Health; a Focus on the Male

Front Physiol. 2021 Nov 11:12:753686. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2021.753686. eCollection 2021.

Authors

Barbara Fraser^{1

2}, Alexandra E Peters^{2

3}, Jessie M Sutherland^{2

3}, Mingtao Liang^{2

3}, Diane Rebourcet^{1

2}, Brett Nixon^{1

2}, Robert J Aitken^{1

2}

Affiliations

¹ Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.
² Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.
³ Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.

Abstract

A growing body of research has confirmed that nanoparticle (NP) systems can enhance delivery of therapeutic and imaging agents as well as prevent potentially damaging systemic exposure to these agents by modifying the kinetics of their release. With a wide choice of NP materials possessing different properties and surface modification options with unique targeting agents, bespoke nanosystems have been developed for applications varying from cancer therapeutics and genetic modification to cell imaging. Although there remain many challenges for the clinical application of nanoparticles, including toxicity within the reproductive system, some of these may be overcome with the recent development of biodegradable nanoparticles that offer increased biocompatibility. In recognition of this potential, this review seeks to present recent NP research with a focus on the exciting possibilities posed by the application of biocompatible nanomaterials within the fields of male reproductive medicine, health, and research.

Keywords: chemotherapy; imaging; male reproductive health; nanomaterials; reproductive research.

Publication types

Review