PLGA-based nanoparticles: A new paradigm in biomedical applications

Polymers were first introduced three decades ago as bioresorbable surgical devices. Since then, polymer-based nanoparticles have been extensively studied in a variety of fields. Nanocarriers formulated with biocompatible and biodegradable polymers approved by the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and EMA (European Medicines Agency) are being studied for the controlled delivery of various therapeutic agents. Amidst the various polymers synthesized for formulating polymeric nanoparticles, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is the most popular. PLGA has several interesting properties such as controlled and sustained release, low cytotoxicity, long-standing biomedical applications, biocompatibility with tissues and cells, prolonged residence time and targeted delivery. The main aim of this review was to comprehensively address the issues related to PLGA-based nanoparticles focusing on the methods of preparation, characterization techniques, surface modification, mechanism of drug release and the drawbacks. The review also critically addresses the developmental aspects of PLGA-based nanocarriers in terms of targeted drug delivery, as well as exploring their efficacy in vitro and in vivo.