June 27, 2024 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlightedthe following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: fact-checked peer-reviewed publication trusted source proofread by University of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering Despite gaining a bad rap in mainstream media in recent years, nanoparticles have been successfully used for decades in targeted drug delivery systems. Drug molecules can be encapsulated within biodegradable nanoparticles to be delivered to specific cells or diseased tissues.
However, blood flow dynamics can significantly affect the nanoparticle's ability to bind at the target site and stay adhered long enough for the drug to be released. Drawing inspiration from civil, mechanical, electrical and chemical engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign professors Arif Masud and Hyunjoon Kong have developed and tested a new mathematical model to accurately simulate the effects of blood flow on the adhesion and retention of nanoparticle drug carriers. The model closely corresponded to in-vitro experiments, demonstrating the impact that model-based simulations can have on nanocarrier optimization.
In turn, this will accelerate drug design and patient-specific treatment. The results of this research were recently published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences . While treatments involving therapeutic drugs delivered to diseased tissues through the .
