Nanoparticle Dynamics in Drug Delivery Systems

Nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery seeks to improve therapeutic index by controlling the transport, localisation and cellular uptake of active agents. Core aspects of nanoparticle dynamics include circulation in the bloodstream, lateral drift (margination) toward the vessel wall, transvascular extravasation and interaction with target cells via endocytic pathways. These processes are governed by physicochemical properties such as particle size, shape, surface charge and functionalisation, as well as by the mechanical and flow conditions of the vasculature. Advances in experimental microfluidics, high-resolution imaging and multiscale simulation have elucidated how anisotropic geometries, surface coatings and membrane mechanics influence biodistribution, cellular internalisation and payload release. A detailed understanding of these interdependent factors underpins the rational design of carriers for oncology, inflammatory diseases and precision medicine, enabling reduced off-target effects, enhanced tissue penetration and stimulus-responsive delivery.

Research from Nature Portfolio

Recent studies have revealed distinct molecular mechanisms by which fluid-phase droplets and solid nanoparticles engage the cell membrane. Molecular dynamics simulations demonstrate two endocytic pathways for complete or partial engulfment of liquid droplets, with membrane neck geometry and line tension governing fission. Complementing this, experiments with anisotropic gold nanoparticles show that triangular particles achieve higher uptake efficiency in macrophage-like cells than rods or stars, reflecting shape-dependent preference for clathrin, caveolae or micropinocytic routes. On a larger scale, mesoscopic hydrodynamic simulations indicate that ellipsoidal microparticles exhibit slower near-wall rotation yet improved adhesion compared with submicron spheres, underscoring how size and aspect ratio modulate margination and vascular targeting.

Nanoparticle Dynamics in Drug Delivery Systems publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in nanoparticle dynamics in drug delivery systems across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Nanoparticle: A particle with dimensions in the range of 1–100 nanometres, used as a carrier for drug molecules.

Margination: The lateral drift of circulating particles toward vessel walls under flow, facilitating adhesion and extravasation.

Endocytosis: The cellular process by which materials are internalised via membrane engulfment and vesicle formation.

Surface functionalisation: The modification of nanoparticle surfaces with ligands or polymers to control targeting, stability and biocompatibility.

Anisotropic: Having direction-dependent properties, as in non-spherical particles that affect circulation and cellular uptake.

References

1. Computer-aided nanodrug discovery: recent progress and future prospects. Chemical Society Reviews (2024).
2. The flow of anisotropic nanoparticles in solution and in blood. Exploration (2023).
3. Different pathways for engulfment and endocytosis of liquid droplets by nanovesicles. Nature Communications (2023).
4. The Effect of shape on Cellular Uptake of Gold Nanoparticles in the forms of Stars, Rods, and Triangles. Scientific Reports (2017).
5. Margination of micro- and nano-particles in blood flow and its effect on drug delivery. Scientific Reports (2014).