Introduction: This review evaluates micro novel carriers (MNCs) like microspheres, microcapsules, microparticles, microemulsions, and lipid-based microparticles for enhancing Tuberculosis (TB) treatment by improving drug targeting, reducing toxicity, and combating drug resistance. TB, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), remains a global health challenge due to lengthy treatment, drug resistance, and limited drug access. Conventional treatments may not reach effective levels at the infection site, necessitating the development of microcarriers for precise and potent drug delivery. Methodology: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using databases like Pub- Med/PMC, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science covering research from the past 5 years (2020 to 2025). The criteria for selection included studies focused on the formulation, characterization, in vitro and in vivo assessments, as well as the clinical significance of innovative MNCs in TB treatment. Additionally, reviews of clinical trials and patent information were incorporated for translational understanding. Results: The research indicated that innovative carriers enhance drug delivery by improving pharmacokinetics, targeting alveolar macrophages, and facilitating controlled release. Recent developments feature microspheres for isoniazid (INH), microcapsules for rifampicin (RIF), and lipid-core microparticles for various medications, resulting in improved bioavailability, less frequent dosing, and minimized side effects in preclinical evaluations. Discussion: An analysis of the existing evidence has shown that MNCs possess considerable potential to overcome the pharmacological and therapeutic challenges associated with current TB treatment regimens. Their distinct structural and compositional diversity allows for the encapsulation of both hydrophilic and lipophilic anti-TB medications, which improves stability, solubility, and prolonged release. Furthermore, ligand-functionalized and inhalable microcarriers exhibit enhanced uptake by macrophages, targeted delivery to the lungs, and minimized systemic toxicity. Additionally, patents and new clinical trial findings underscore their practical applicability, although obstacles persist in terms of large-scale manufacturing, regulatory approval, and cost-effectiveness. Conclusion: MNCs can overcome TB treatment challenges by improving drug stability, solubility, and sustained release. Ligand-functionalized and inhalable carriers enhance macrophage uptake, targeted lung delivery, and reduce systemic toxicity. Patents and clinical data support their applicability, though large-scale production and regulatory approval remain challenges. MNCs offer a promising platform for targeted TB therapy, overcoming conventional treatment drawbacks. Further research is needed to confirm their safety, scalability, and effectiveness in human populations.
Introduction: Recent advances in the field of nanotechnology have accelerated the development of polymeric nanocarriers for cancer therapy, enabling high precision and improved therapeutic efficiency. Among these, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) have gained significant attention, as PLGA is a U.S. FDA-approved polymer for various biomedical applications. Methods: PLGA has several important properties, including biodegradability, biocompatibility, sustained drug-release properties, and minimal toxicity. However, mucoadhesion and cellular uptake of the delivery system in the tumour microenvironment are slightly compromised due to the negative surface charge of the PLGA. This issue can be overcome by surface functionalization with chitosan (CS), a cationic polysaccharide. This helps to improve nanoparticle stability, permeability, and sitespecific targeting. This also enables targeted delivery of the drug to the tumor's microenvironment. Results: This review provides a comprehensive overview of the chemical composition and key properties of PLGA, the characteristics of chitosan, and the rationale for chitosan surface functionalization. Additionally, it discusses various fabrication methods of the NPs, including emulsification, nanoprecipitation, salting-out, dialysis, spray drying, and microfluidics techniques. Discussion: The characterization studies included determination of particle size, zeta potential, and morphology, which confirm the successful chitosan coating. In vitro and in vivo studies further demonstrated the potential of this nanoparticle system for controlled, targeted, and biocompatible delivery of anticancer agents. Conclusion: This review also provides a comprehensive roadmap of current challenges and future perspectives along with a survey of recent patents related to this delivery system.
Abstract: Recent developments in targeted drug delivery have highlighted the potential of nanoparticle- loaded systems to improve therapeutic efficacy. However, their clinical application is limited by poor intratumoral distribution and inability to control dispersed tumor regions. In this study, we explored the use of stem cells as carriers for drug-loaded nanoparticles, leveraging their inherent tumor-homing ability and capacity to traverse interstitial barriers. The combined system demonstrated enhanced delivery efficiency and improved localization of the therapeutic agent, suggesting that stem cell-nanoparticle hybrids may overcome key limitations of conventional nanoparticle therapies. These findings support further development of stem cell-mediated nanocarrier strategies for targeted cancer treatment.
Introduction: Leishmaniasis, caused by Leishmania protozoa, is a serious health issue in the endemic areas. Conventional therapies are common but are plagued with drug resistance, toxicity, poor drug availability, and minimal therapeutic outcomes. Recent developments in nanotechnology, along with patent-protected formulations, present new therapeutic prospects by enhancing the solubility, bio-distribution, and targeted delivery of drugs, thus eliminating most of the undesirable effects that traditional treatments have. Methods: The literature search and selection process was conducted in a structured and transparent manner, following a PRISMA-inspired approach. Literature search was conducted across major scientific databases, such as PubMed, Springer, and ScienceDirect, with key terms that included: nanoparticles in leishmaniasis, nanocarriers of leishmaniasis management, and nanoformulations of leishmaniasis. Only original in vivo studies published in the past decade were considered, and reviews, commentaries, and non-efficacy studies were excluded. Results: The primary search produced 1,432 articles, which were narrowed down to 1,150 through elimination of duplicates. A total of 32 studies were found after the screening and application of inclusion/ exclusion criteria. Together, these studies concluded that nano-based systems enhanced the drug solubility, stability, and targeted macrophage delivery, as well as reducing systemic toxicity in comparison to conventional treatment. The majority of formulations had increased parasite clearance in vivo, extended drug circulation, and a lower frequency. Discussion: Research studies demonstrated that different nanoparticle systems, such as liposomes, polymeric, lipid-based, vesicular-based, and metallic nanoparticles, exhibited controlled release, prolonged blood circulation, and mechanisms of avoiding parasite resistance mechanisms. Such encouraging results have not yet translated into practice. Regulatory uncertainties, high cost, and largescale reproducibility are major barriers. However, nano-based strategies coupled with artificial intelligence- driven design have the potential to accelerate clinical translation in endemic regions. Conclusion: Nanotechnology is a new paradigm for the management of leishmaniasis. The development of multidisciplinary collaboration and concentrated research is required to enhance clinical acceptance, cost reduction, and accessibility in endemic areas.
Micro- and nanorobots are rapidly emerging as innovative tools in biomedicine, capable of performing highly localized tasks such as targeted drug delivery, minimally invasive diagnostics, and microscale surgical procedures. A notable shift over the past decade has been the evolution from rigid, hard-structured devices to soft, flexible micro- and nanorobots. This transition enables better adaptability within complex biological environments and enhances biocompatibility, paving the way for more effective and safer in vivo applications. Recent research has emphasized the fabrication of soft micro- and nanorobotic components, including actuators, sensors, hinges, joints, and drug reservoirs. Inspired by the locomotion mechanisms of flexible microorganisms, these components have been designed to mimic natural motion. The integration of organic and stimuli-responsive materials, such as polymers and supramolecular ensembles, has further enabled these systems to undergo complex behaviors, including dynamic shape transformations and advanced propulsion strategies. Additionally, biological entities, such as contractile mammalian cells and microorganisms, have been harnessed as microengines, driving motion by inducing deformation in synthetic materials. These biohybrid designs represent a significant advancement in the functionality and versatility of micro- and nanoswimmers. Recent advancements have introduced the concept of Collectives of Nanorobots (CNRs), expanding the functional scope of these systems for medical applications. These collectives have demonstrated potential in a range of critical tasks, including (a) mapping anatomical structures, (b) regulating cardiovascular function, (c) managing glucose and insulin levels, (d) executing precise drug delivery, (e) diagnosing cellular abnormalities, and (f) selectively targeting and eliminating tumor cells. This review highlights the diverse architectures, patented technologies, and actuation mechanisms that underpin the operation of soft micro- and nanorobots. By examining their motion dynamics and clinical utility, this work underscores the transformative potential of these devices in next-generation medical interventions.
Introduction:: A co-amorphous substance is a new drug-delivery technology for pharmaceutical formulations that consists of a homogeneous, single-phase mixture of two or more lowmolecular- weight molecules. Such systems have the potential to improve the dissolution rate, solubility, and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. Additionally, they provide greater physical stability than the crystalline and amorphous forms of the same drug. Methods:: This study employed systematic patent landscape analysis regarding the development of co-amorphous material systems. It contains information from 10 projects, compiled in Microsoft Excel, and records patent submissions compiled from 1993 through early 2025, covering the four major countries USA, China, Japan, and Australia. These Patents landscape provides information on granted patents and applications by applicant name and number, filing and publication dates, and publication type (A1/B2). Results:: The patent landscape analysis shows that patent applications increased in both the US and China post-2020. In Japan, there was a more equal distribution of patents between industry and academia than in Australia, where many patents were filed by industry. The primary applicants for these patents include Zerion Pharma APS and MSN Laboratories. These patents provide information on the application of "Co-Amorphous Technology" within both the nutraceutical and agrochemical industries. Discussion:: The increase in the patent growth trends indicated increasing recognition of coamorphous systems to enhance drug performance. The geographic distribution highlighted different models of innovation, from academia-industry collaborations to industry-dominated research. The participation of leading pharmaceutical companies further marked the commercial feasibility of such systems. Conclusion:: This patent landscape analysis provides essential information on innovation trends in co-amorphous systems. This information can be used for planning in the pharmaceutical research and technology development fields.
Introduction: This review systematically examines the advances in micro-nano indentation technology, an innovative method for cross-dimensional extraction of mechanical properties, which overcomes limitations of traditional testing techniques. Methods: The development of instrumentation and standardization is reviewed. Key theoretical models and analysis methods are discussed, including the Oliver-Pharr method, strain gradient plasticity, viscoelastic models, and the Laugier model for fracture toughness. Recent patent-related innovations in hardware, such as in-situ high-temperature/vacuum systems (e.g., CN112229752A, CN117129355A) and high-speed sampling technologies, are highlighted. Results: The indentation response across various material systems (metals, ceramics, biomaterials, composites, flexible electronics, 2D materials) is analyzed. Case studies demonstrate successful applications in industrial coating evaluation, revealing Hall-Petch relationship anomalies in nanocrystalline metals, and inspiring biomimetic material design. Discussion: Challenges like surface roughness effects and instrument response delay during highstrain- rate testing are addressed, alongside solutions involving surface pretreatment and novel noisereduction algorithms (e.g., patent CN202411212667.8). Conclusion: Nanoindentation technology shows strong interdisciplinary potential. Future development should focus on in-situ multimodal systems, machine learning integration, standardization, and extreme environment testing, facilitating its transition from a characterization tool to a design platform. Relevant patented technologies play a crucial role in this evolution.
Introduction: Microneedle systems are a promising category of devices used for various applications, such as drug delivery and diagnostics, offering benefits, including but not limited to, painless administration and improved patient experience and compliance. When combined with nanotechnology, these systems can offer improved therapeutic performance. Methods: This article analyzed the patent landscape related to technologies combining microneedles and nanotechnology. Patent documents were retrieved from the Espacenet database up to 2024. After applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 932 patents were selected from an initial set of 1,368 documents. The patents were categorized according to application field, publication year, country, origin of the invention (academic, industrial, independent, or other), type of nanotechnology used, and target substance. Results: The results revealed an increasing global patent activity related to the integration of microneedles and nanotechnology. The patents covered diverse therapeutic and preventive applications and demonstrated the incorporation of multiple nanosystems, microneedle formats, and bioactive compounds. Discussion: It is notable that this technological association has a multidisciplinary nature and is increasingly relevant to drug delivery innovation. The diversity of approaches reflects the potential of combining nanotechnology with microneedle systems to address different challenges in a wide number of health-related fields. Conclusion: Overall, the patent landscape indicates a growing global interest in microneedlenanotechnology integration. The findings may support technological assessment, research planning, and the identification of collaboration opportunities between academia and industry
Introduction: In recent years, nanomaterial modification technology has advanced rapidly in biomedicine, particularly in the field of drug delivery. Methods: Using global patent data, this study constructed a two-dimensional analytical framework integrating technological trajectories and research hotspots. Based on this framework, main path analysis and thematic analysis were combined to systematically examine the technological trajectory and research hotspots of nanomaterial modification technology in drug delivery. Results: The analysis showed that this technology has undergone a clear evolutionary process: from the early optimization of nanomaterial-based drug delivery systems, to the transition from single modification strategies to diversified composite modifications, then to targeted functionalization as the core approach, and ultimately to intelligent, stimuli-responsive, precision-controlled release. Thematic analysis further clarifies the current research hotspots, including the synergistic application of bionic photothermal effects with chemotherapy and immunotherapy, targeted delivery vectors for precision gene editing and protein therapy, and stimulus-responsive targeted delivery systems. Discussion: The continued development of nanomaterial modification technology in drug delivery is driving nanomedicine toward greater systematization, precision, and personalization, thereby providing important technical support for the treatment of complex diseases. Conclusion: By identifying the technological trajectory and research hotspots of nanomaterial modification technology in drug delivery, this study aims to provide a reference for its further research and application in this field.
Introduction The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate Berberine nanophytosomes. A 2-level factorial design with midpoints was selected for the design of experimentation. Further, it was extended to a central composite design.Materials & Methods The ratio of drug: lipid and probe sonication time were the factors, and vesicle size, PDI & % Entrapment Efficiency (% EE) as responses. Molecular docking studies of the drug were performed on alpha-glucosidase with acarbose (3W37) protein. FTI-IR and solubility studies were conducted as preformulation studies. Berberine nanophytosomes were formulated and optimized by the Design of Experiments-based technique. In vitro drug release studies, SEM, TEM, in vitro antidiabetic activity, and safety studies on VERO cells were performed. The recent patents granted on Berberine nanoparticles were US 2023/0181547 A1, WO 2022/168124 A1, 202011054150, 202111011487, and 2625/CHE/2013.Results The multiple linear regression analysis revealed that vesicle size increased upon increasing the ratio of Drug:soyalecithin & probe sonication, but at the midpoint level, the size reduced. At 3 min probe sonication, greater than 80% EE was observed, and at the midpoint level, greater than 90% was observed, but upon increasing the time to 5 min, the % EE decreased. An optimum PDI value was observed at mid-point level, i.e, 0.5. ANOVA was used to identify a significant effect. The drug release studies revealed that at pH 6.8, almost 90% of the drug was released. The zeta potential value of the optimized formulation was found to be -7.1 mV, indicating stability. SEM and TEM studies indicated a spherical shape of the particles.Discussion Berberine had a greater inhibiting effect on alpha-glucosidase enzyme with an IC50 of 206.1 +/- 0.49 & micro;g/ml, whereas Berberine nanophytosomes exhibited extensive inhibition with an IC50 value of 118.5 +/- 0.26 & micro;g/ml, almost a 1.74 times reduction in IC50 value. Finally, safety studies of formulated nano-preparation on VERO cells indicated safety.Conclusion This study reports, for the first time, a statistically optimized (central composite design-based) Berberine soyalecithin nanophytosomal system that improves solubility, bioavailability, and enzyme inhibition efficacy while maintaining safety. Unlike previous patented formulations, this work combines experimental optimization, molecular docking, in vitro enzyme inhibition, and cytocompatibility validation, establishing a scientifically integrated approach toward Berberine-based antidiabetic nutraceutical development.
Introduction This study evaluates the feasibility of reclaiming waste titanium dioxide (TiO2) spray-coating solution as a feedstock for manufacturing antimicrobial cotton fabrics using a continuous roll-to-roll (R2R) process. Waste TiO2 was collected, purified, and applied to cotton fabrics through an R2R coating process.Methods Waste TiO2 was collected from an industrial spray line, purified, and reconstituted before R2R application onto cotton. Coated fabrics were characterized by SEM/EDS, and antibacterial activity was assessed per ISO 20743:2013 against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.Results The TiO2-finished cotton achieved >= 99.8 percent bacterial reduction for both organisms, with high durability maintained after 40 laundering cycles; SEM/EDS confirmed persistent TiO2 on the fibre surfaces after washing.Discussion These results demonstrate that reclaimed TiO2 waste can serve as an effective antimicrobial finish compatible with scalable R2R manufacturing, offering a pathway to reduce virgin TiO2 use and divert waste.Conclusion Within the limits of this study, the approach provides a practical route to circularity in antimicrobial textiles. Future work should quantify environmental and economic impacts and benchmark against virgin TiO2 formulations. Beyond demonstrating ISO 20743 antibacterial efficacy on cotton, we standardize protocols for multi-substrate coating and an expanded microbial panel, present mechanistic evidence for fibre-TiO2 interactions and photocatalysis, and report pilot roll-to-roll throughput with cost modelling to enable industrial adoption.
The recent rapid progress in artificial intelligence (AI) and the processing of big data imposes a strong demand to explore novel approaches for robust and efficient hardware solutions. Neuromorphic engineering and brain-inspired electronics take inspiration from biological information pathways in neural assemblies, particularly their fundamental building blocks and organizational principles. In contrast, resistive switching in memristive devices is widely considered an electronic synapse with potential applications in in-memory computing and vector-matrix multiplication. Further aspects of brain-inspired electronics require exploring both organizational principles from individual building units towards connected networks, as well as the resistive switching properties of each unit. In this context, nanogranular matter made of nano-objects, such as nanoparticles or nanowires, has gained considerable research interest due to emergent brain-like, scale-free switching dynamics originating from the self-organization of its building units into connected networks. In this study, we review resistive switching in nanogranular matter featuring metal nanoparticles as their functional building blocks. First, common deposition strategies for nanoparticles, as well as nanoparticle-based nanocomposites, are discussed, and challenges in the investigation of their inherited resistive switching properties are addressed. Secondly, an overview of resistive switching properties in nanogranular matter, ranging from individual nanoparticles over sparse nanoparticle arrangements to highly interconnected nanogranular networks, is provided. Finally, concepts and examples of information processing using nanoparticle networks are outlined.
The increase in computational power demand led by the development of Artificial Intelligence is rapidly becoming unsustainable. New paradigms of computation, which potentially differ from digital computation, together with novel hardware architecture and devices, are anticipated to reduce the exorbitant energy demand for data-processing tasks. Memristive systems with resistive switching behavior are under intense research, given their prominent role in the fabrication of memory devices that promise the desired hardware revolution in our intensive data-driven era. They are suggested to provide the hardware substrate to scale up computational capabilities while improving their energy expenditure and speed. This work provides an orientation map for those interested in the vast topic of memristive systems with application to neuromorphic computing. We address the description of the most notable emerging devices and we illustrate models that capture the complex dynamical behavior of these systems under the dynamical-systems framework developed by Chua. We then review the memristive behavior under the perspective of statistical physics and percolation theory suited to describe fluctuations and disorder which are otherwise precluded in the dynamical-system approach. Percolation theory allows the investigation of these systems at the mesoscopic level, enabling material-independent modeling of non-linear conductance networks. We finally discuss recent and less recent successes in deep learning methods that bridge the field of physics-based and biological- inspired neuromorphic computing.
Background: Thin Film Transistors (TFTs) are increasingly prevalent electrical components in display products, ranging from smartphones to diagonal flat panel TVs. The limitations in existing TFT technologies, such as high-temperature processing, carrier mobility, lower ON/OFF ratio, device mobility, and thermal stability, result in the search for new semiconductor materials with superior properties. Objective: The main objective of this present work is to fabrícate the efficient Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Thin Film Transistor (TFT) for flat panel display. Methods: Carbon Nano-Tubes (CNTs) are a promising semiconductor material for TFT devices due to their one-dimensional structure and exceptional characteristics. In this research work, the CNTTFTs have been fabricated using nano-fabrication techniques with a spin process. The fabricated devices have been characterized for structural, morphological, and electrical characteristics. Results: The 20 μm channel length and 30 μm channel width fabricated device produces about 1.3 nA, which lies in the practical range of operating TFTs reported previously. Compared to reported patents and published works, this demonstrates a significant improvement. Conclusion: Further guidelines and limitations of this fabrication method are also discussed for future efficient device fabrication.
BACKGROUND:Nanosuspension has emerged as an effective, lucrative, and unequalled approach for efficiently elevating the dissolution and bioavailability of aqueous soluble drugs. Diverse challenges persist within this domain, demanding further comprehensive investigation and exploration. OBJECTIVE:This study aims to design, develop, optimise formulation and process variables, and characterise the stabilised aqueous dissolvable nanosuspension using chlorthalidone as a BCS class- IV drug. METHODS:Nanosuspensions of the chlorthalidone drug were prepared using a combination of topdown and bottom-up approaches. Various polymers such as Pluronic L-64, F-68, F-127, and Synperonic F-108 were used as stabilisers in this research. All important processes and formulation variables, such as ultrasonication intensity and time, the concentration of the drug, organic solvent, and stabilisers that may critically influence the characteristics of the nanosuspensions, were optimised. Formulation screening was performed using the optimisation of process and formulation variables, and the optimised nanosuspension formulation was assessed for particle size, PDI, surface charge, morphology, in vitro drug release, and stability. RESULTS:To select an optimised nanosuspension formulation, the effects of formulation and process variables were investigated. These variables critically influence the development of a stabilised nanosuspension. The outcomes revealed that the nanosuspension formulation containing pluronic F- 68 as a stabiliser in 0.6% w/v concentration and the drug in 4 mg/ml concentration were optimized. The particle size and zeta potential of the optimised preparation were 110 nm and -27.5 mV, respectively. The in-vitro drug release of chlorthalidone drug from the optimised nanoformulation was increased up to 3-fold, approximately (88% in 90 min) compared with pure chlorthalidone drug (27% in 90 min) because of the decrease in particle size. Moreover, stability studies indicated that the crafted nanoformulation was stable at cold (4℃) as well as normal room temperature (25℃) for six months. CONCLUSION:From the obtained results, it was concluded that the combination of top-down and bottom- up approaches employed for the fabrication of oral nanosuspension is a remunerative and lucrative approach to successfully resolve the perplexities associated with the dissolution rate of poorly aqueous soluble BCS class-IV drug moieties such as chlorthalidone.
BACKGROUND:Sodium vanadium fluorophosphate is a sodium ion superconductor material with high sodium ion mobility and excellent cyclic stability, making it a promising cathode material for sodium-ion batteries. However, most of the literature and patents report preparation through traditional methods, which involve complex processes, large particle sizes, and low electronic conductivity, thereby limiting development progress. OBJECTIVE:Aiming at the limitation of high cost and poor performance of vanadium sodium fluorophosphate cathode material, the low temperature and high-efficiency nano preparation technology was developed. METHODS:This study uses a homogenizer with high dispersion and shear force to directionally control the collision of sodium vanadium fluorophosphate nanoparticles with higher specific surface energy during the initial nucleation stage, forming nanosheet structures. RESULTS:The growth mechanism of these nanosheets was analyzed using SEM, XRD, AFM, and DFT simulation. Results indicate that the crystal surfaces with higher surface energy undergo directional collisions in the early nucleation stage, gradually reducing the surface energy and stabilizing the system, resulting in sodium vanadium fluorophosphate nanosheets. CONCLUSION:Due to the larger specific surface area and pore structure, these nanosheets exhibit excellent rate performance and cycle stability, making them suitable for application and promotion in the field of fast-charging energy storage.
Surface wettability is the property of any surface when it encounters water. When the surface of electrical components is exposed to water, corrosion or insulation breakdown can occur, potentially leading to short circuits or device malfunction. From 2000 to 2023, flexible electronic devices with superhydrophobic properties have experienced increasing demand in the market. In the proposed work, a review and innovation mapping was conducted using the Espacenet database from 2000 to 2024, considering a total of 48,71,256 patents. In addition to the Espacenet database, Unified Patents and Lens.org were also utilized for citation analysis and the examination of patent indices. The findings demonstrate a significant upward digital trend in superhydrophobic flexible electronics, with versatile applications in the health, textile, nanotechnology, and electrical sectors. The key patent demonstrates the properties that are essential for fabricating superhydrophobic flexible electronics, i.e., self-cleaning, porous structure, conducting, bendable, and durable with Water Contact Angle (WCA) >150 ˚ and Sliding Angle (SA) <10 ˚. This article also discusses the classification of patents using Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) and International Patent Classification (IPC) codes, including main and subgroup categorizations, the language of publication, countries, inventors, and applicants who contributed to the progress of superhydrophobic coating for flexible electronics. The insights from this study provide a valuable foundation for future advancements in the field, enabling the development of more durable, efficient, and multifunctional flexible electronic devices. As the demand for water-resistant and high-performance electronics continues to grow, this research is a crucial reference for guiding innovation and fostering technological breakthroughs in wearable electronics, biomedical applications, and next-generation innovative materials.
Over the past decades, biosensor technologies have experienced significant advances with the rapid development of novel nanomaterials and nanotechnologies. The analysis was performed using a patent dataset of nanobiosensors, including 2709 patent documents. The number of patents has been growing rapidly since 2000. Currently, China and the USA are the main contributors to the number of patents. Based on patent data, the most commonly used nanomaterials in biosensors are primarily metal-based, polymer-based, and carbon-based nanomaterials. Recently, the HCPs (highly cited patents, cited≥14) of biosensors include more than 10 types of nanomaterials, such as Ag NPs, Au NPs, graphene, CNTs, and polymer nanomaterials, indicating the diversity of nanomaterials and nanotechnologies used in biosensors. The number of HCPs from the USA is as high as 147, which is 3.5 times that of China. The use of nanomaterials in biosensors has been attracting increasing attention from researchers for decades. The sharp increase in patents since 2017 can be attributed to a significant number of new patents from India and China. In terms of the proportion of HCPs in the patent dataset, patented technologies from the US showed higher quality and value compared to those from other countries such as China, South Korea, and India. In the future, research on nanomaterials for biosensors, including metal and carbon-based nanomaterials, may focus on optimising their properties through the development of composite nanomaterials. With the application research of nucleic acid nanomaterials and MOFs, there could potentially be new technological breakthroughs in biosensors.
RNA-based therapeutics, such as RNA interference (RNAi) and mRNA therapies, have shown significant potential in treating diseases like cancer, genetic disorders, and respiratory conditions. However, an ongoing challenge is the efficient and targeted delivery of RNA to specific cells while minimizing toxicity and off-target effects. This review examines recent advancements in nanoparticle( s) (NPs) delivery systems, with a focus on RNA-coated liposomes, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), and size- and surface-modifiable NPs, aiming to overcome the challenges associated with RNA delivery. We also explore the impact of specific patents in this field. The relevant information was collected from the scientific literature. We discussed various NP platforms and their applications, such as RNA-coated liposomes for oral cancer treatment, dry powder formulations of mRNA-loaded LNPs for pulmonary delivery, and LNP-mediated siRNA delivery for respiratory infections. We also explore NP optimization strategies, such as lipid tail modifications for RNA cargos like mRNA and CRISPR/Cas9. These NP-based systems have led to advancements in tumor targeting, intracellular delivery, and RNA release, demonstrating their promise in RNA therapeutics. Relevant patents, such as WO2016044478A1, which details the use of AAV vectors for treating MYOC glaucoma with RNAi targeting MYOC; WO2011158933A1, which describes a siRNA-based pharmaceutical composition for renal fibrosis using liposomes with retinol as a targeting agent; and WO2019173787A1, which specifies bacterial-toxin-derived constructs for oral siRNA delivery, further validate the progress in RNA delivery technologies. Despite these advancements, challenges such as targeting efficiency, endosomal escape, stability, immune system interactions, and scalability still remain. Continued innovation in RNA nanotechnology, drawing on insights from recent patents, is crucial for developing more effective and personalized RNA-based therapies.
