ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on natural-based biocompatible and biodegradable materials that are used as matrices/carriers for controlled release or targeted biodistribution of nanoscale active pharmaceutical ingredients with low toxicity and favorable pharmacokinetics. Nanoformulations can be considered as a complex of various materials in nanoscale. The biodegradability of matrices/formulating stabilizers is connected not only with toxicity but also with formulation stability. Cyclodextrin (CD)-based nanosponges are innovative cross-linked CD polymers nanostructured within a three-dimensional (3D) network that are proposed as new nanoscale delivery systems. In relation to the rapid development of nanotechnology and applications of functionalized biodegradable biocompatible nanomaterials, controlled release and targeted delivery nanoformulations not only enhance bioavailability, decrease toxicity for non-target tissues and "pill burden," but also protect active ingredients against decomposition and deactivation. Nanoparticles in biomedical branches can be used as nanodiagnostics, as nanomaterials for tissue engineering, as drug carriers for specific delivery/targeted biodistribution or controlled release, and as agents/drugs for prevention/treatment of diseases.
