Nano drug-delivery systems for management of AIDS: liposomes, dendrimers, gold and silver nanoparticles

AIDS causes increasing mortality every year. With advancements in nanomedicine, different nanomaterials (NMs) have been applied to treat AIDS and overcome its limitations. Among different NMs, nanoparticles (NPs) can act as nanocarriers due to their enhanced solubility, sustained release, targeting abilities and facilitation of drug dose reductions. This review discusses recent advancements in therapeutics for AIDS/HIV using various NMs, mainly focused on three classifications: polymeric, liposomal and inorganic NMs. Polymeric dendrimers, polyethylenimine-NPs, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-NPs, chitosan and the use of liposomal-based delivery systems and inorganic NPs, including gold and silver NPs, are explored. Recent advances, current challenges and future perspectives on the use of these NMs for better management of HIV/AIDS are also discussed. Plain language summaryAIDS is a disease affecting many worldwide. Since it is difficult to cure AIDS, new therapies have been developed. Tiny materials called nanoparticles with promising features are used to carry different drugs to relevant organs in the body. There are various nanoparticles with different textures and shapes used in AIDS therapy. Branched nanoparticles, nanoparticles with repetitive building blocks and metal-based nanoparticles are three commonly used nanoparticles in AIDS treatment that are studied in this review. These tiny materials can find the exact place in the body to deliver drugs. They can also reduce the side effects of anti-AIDS drugs and help patients use fewer drugs while getting the same or better results. Tweetable abstractIn this review, recent advances, current challenges and future perspectives in the use of liposomal-based delivery systems and inorganic nanoparticles (including gold and silver nanoparticles) for better management of HIV/AIDS are critically discussed.