Redox-Responsive-Based Nanoparticles

Redox-responsive nanoparticles have emerged as a revolutionary strategy in nanomedicine for the targeted, site-specific, and stimuli-responsive release of therapeutics upon detecting redox imbalances within pathological environments. This chapter delineates a comprehensive discussion on the design concepts, functional elements, and biomedical applications of redox-responsive nanoparticles. The main mechanism involves the cleavage and transformation of redox-sensitive linkages, such as disulphide, diselenide, and thioketal species owing to elevated intracellular concentrations of glutathione (GSH), reactive oxygen species (ROS), reactive nitrogen species (RNS), etc., in tumor, inflammatory, and other pathological microenvironments. Furthermore, this chapter also addresses dual-redox-responsive nanoparticle systems that integrate multiple other types of stimuli (pH, enzymatic triggers) to overcome the shortcomings observed with single stimulus-trigger nanoparticle systems, as well as improving targeting and therapeutic efficacy. Despite the promising preclinical efficacy, issues with clinical application, reproducibility, scalability, and regulatory compliance remain critical for future development. Overall, redox-responsive nanocarriers offer a highly adaptable and smart option that could redefine the approach of targeted therapeutics across a range of diseases and pathological conditions.