PLGA Nanoparticles for Delivery of Antitumor Agents

This paper presents a non-systematic review of the scientific literature focused on the study and application of nanoparticles based on the copolymer of lactic and glycolic acids (PLGA) as nanocarriers of antitumor drugs. It examines methods of manufacturing PLGA nanoparticles, their physicochemical properties which determine the accumulation of drugs, and biological properties which play an important role in the targeted delivery of antitumor drugs (passive or active). The mechanisms of passive targeting and methods of modifying the surface of nanoparticles for active targeting of drugs to tumor cells are discussed indicating possible methods of usage of PLGA nanoparticles (solid and gel-like) for patients’ treatment. The authors list main disadvantages of PLGA nanoparticles that hinder active translation of antitumor drugs inserted into nanocarriers to clinical practice. The review contains FDA recommendations from the program for study the quality of nanocarriers, including generics, with a view to ensure their transfer to clinical trials.