Polymeric Nanocarriers for the Delivery of Phytoconstituents

In past decades, with the advent of nanotechnology, nanocarriers have been highlighted as promising drug delivery systems for therapeutic, diagnostic, and nutraceutical agents. Based on their chemical nature, the most widely studied nanocarriers can be classified into biological (proteins) and polymeric, inorganic and organic (micelles, dendrimers, and liposomes) nanostructures. Among the potential drug carrier systems, polymeric nanocarriers have gained significant importance owing to their high binding capacity, biodegradability, abundant renewable sources, low cytotoxicity, and significant uptake in targeted cells. Even more, they act as promising candidates for efficient gene and drug delivery. In particular, the unique structure of polymers allows site-specific drug targeting and conjugation in addressing various diseases. The present chapter highlights the major advances in polymeric nanocarriers as a drug delivery system for phytoconstituents including their advantages, types, limitations, and preclinical and clinical investigations. In addition, comprehensive evidence of the influence of their physicochemical properties on drug delivery profiles to design intelligent nanocarriers has also been highlighted.