Nano-based biopolymers are emerging as a powerful tool in targeted disease
therapy, offering a promising combination of the precision of nanotechnology and the
biocompatibility of natural polymers. In administering therapeutic chemicals
specifically to certain disease areas, these nanoscale (1–100 nm) materials are intended
to maximize therapeutic effectiveness while decreasing systemic adverse reactions. The
integration of biopolymers, which are biodegradable and non-toxic, with nanoparticles
allows for the creation of advanced drug delivery systems capable of responding to
specific biological signals. This book chapter covers almost all current evolutions in
nanomaterial-based medicament delivery techniques, with a focus on biopolymers such
as polysaccharides (chitosan, alginate, cellulose, and starch) and proteins (albumin,
collagen, gelatin, and silk fibroin). In cancer therapy, nano-based biopolymers can
deliver chemotherapeutic agents precisely to tumour cells, minimizing damage to good
tissues and overcoming the possible adverse effects linked with traditional radiation
therapy. Additionally, these materials can be used for diagnostic purposes, enhancing
imaging methods such as CT or MRI scans to better locate or characterize tumors.
Regarding gene therapy, biopolymer-based nanoparticles can transfer genetic material,
such as RNA or DNA, directly to specific cells, offering potential treatments for
genetic disorders by correcting or silencing defective genes. Infectious diseases also
benefit from this technology, with nano-based biopolymers delivering antimicrobial
agents directly targeted to the site of infection, thereby increasing the drug's local
concentration and efficacy. Furthermore, because these materials may carry antiinflammatory medications straight to inflammatory tissues, they are being investigated
for the treatment of inflammatory illnesses like rheumatic arthritis, which would lessen
systemic protection against the negative effects. The possibilities of nano-based
biopolymers in personalized medicine are examined in this chapter, along with issues
including stability, scalability, and regulatory compliance.
Keywords: Biopolymers, Cancer therapy, Drug delivery systems, Gene therapy, Infectious diseases, Nano-based, Nanotechnology, Personalized medicine, Targeted disease therapy, Therapeutic agents.
