Unlocking the Power of Antioxidant Nanoparticles: Insights into Classification, Formulation, Characterization, and Biomedical Applications

In the last decade, the exploration of nanoparticles (NPs) with antioxidant activity has rapidly expanded, offering promising strategies to combat oxidative stress-related disorders. Historically, antioxidant research was largely confined to traditional small molecules, but recent advancements have focused on leveraging NPs for enhanced therapeutic effects. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the classification, formulation, and characterization of nanoantioxidants based on their origin (natural vs. synthetic), composition (metallic, polymeric, and carbon-based), and structural properties. These NPs have demonstrated unique advantages, such as enhanced stability, tunable sizes, and improved bioavailability, making them attractive candidates for therapeutic applications. To further optimize their potential, various environmentally friendly synthesis techniques are discussed, highlighting the need for sustainable approaches. Additionally, the review details essential characterization techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), zeta sizer and potential measurements, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), alongside in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo assays to evaluate their antioxidant activity. Amid the growing need for more targeted therapies, antioxidant NPs have shown great promise in mitigating oxidative damage in various biological systems. By summarizing the current state of research and addressing existing knowledge gaps, this review offers valuable insights into mechanisms underlying the bioactivity of nanoantioxidants. It simultaneously proposes future directions to enhance their therapeutic efficacy, ultimately contributing to advances in sustainable health interventions and innovative therapeutic strategies.