Figure 1.

Advantages of nanoparticles

A. Therapeutic molecules are not taken up intracellularly although when loaded in nanoparticles they enter the cell and are released inside.

B. Specific cellular targeting with ligands (antibody, peptide etc.) specific to the cell/condition

C. Different forms of nanostructures can allow local sustained release of therapeutics.

D. Several different molecules are co-delivered to the cell for synergistic effect.

E. Nucleic acids (DNA/RNA) are degraded when exposed in the serum although remain protected when loaded in nanoparticles.