Enzyme-responsive nanoparticles have emerged as a promising platform for
targeted drug delivery, offering unparalleled control over therapeutic release in
response to specific biological cues. This book chapter explores the design principles,
mechanisms of action, and biomedical applications of enzyme-responsive nanoparticles
in drug delivery. The chapter begins by elucidating the rationale behind the
development of enzyme-responsive nanoparticles, highlighting the importance of
precise drug release kinetics, site-specific targeting, and reduced off-target effects in
enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Key design considerations, including choice of enzyme
substrate, nanoparticle composition, and triggering mechanisms, are discussed in detail,
emphasizing the versatility and tunability of these nanosystems for diverse therapeutic
applications. Furthermore, the chapter delves into the underlying mechanisms
governing enzyme-triggered drug release from nanoparticles, such as enzymatic
cleavage, conformational changes, and degradation of nanoparticle matrices. Examples
of enzyme-responsive nanomaterials, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles,
and mesoporous silica nanoparticles, are presented, showcasing their ability to
selectively release therapeutic payloads in response to specific enzymatic stimuli, such
as proteases, phosphatases, and esterases. Moreover, the biomedical applications of
enzyme-responsive nanoparticles are comprehensively reviewed, encompassing
targeted cancer therapy, inflammation modulation, tissue engineering, and diagnostics.
Case studies illustrating the efficacy of enzyme-responsive nanocarriers in overcoming
biological barriers, improving drug bioavailability, and minimizing systemic toxicity
are highlighted, underscoring their translational potential in clinical settings. The
chapter concludes with a discussion of future perspectives and challenges in the field of
enzyme-responsive nanoparticles for drug delivery, including optimization of
nanoparticle stability, scalability of synthesis methods, and integration of imaging modalities for real-time monitoring of therapeutic responses. By harnessing the
catalytic power of enzymes to orchestrate precise drug release, enzyme-responsive
nanoparticles offer a paradigm shift in therapeutic precision, paving the way for
personalized and targeted treatments with enhanced therapeutic outcomes.
Keywords: Drug delivery, Enzyme responsive, Nanomedicine, Nanocarriers.
