Abstract
Abstract
Polymeric Janus nanoparticles (JNPs) are a unique class of anisotropic nanostructures characterized by two or more chemically and/or physically distinct compartments within a single nanoparticle. Unlike conventional spherical nanoparticles, their asymmetric architecture provides spatially separated functionalities that can be independently engineered, offering advantages in drug loading, controlled release, targeting, and multifunctional drug-delivery applications. This lecture provides an overview of polymeric Janus nanoparticles, beginning with their fundamental concept, structural characteristics, and classification according to composition, morphology, and functional organization. Different Janus shapes and architectures, including spherical, snowman-like, dumbbell, and other anisotropic structures, are introduced with emphasis on how particle morphology influences their physicochemical and biological properties.
The lecture further discusses major synthesis strategies for polymeric Janus nanoparticles, including self-assembly, emulsion-based methods, nanoprecipitation, phase separation, and other fabrication approaches, highlighting the relationship between preparation parameters and particle size, morphology, surface characteristics, and polydispersity. Important characterization techniques, such as dynamic light scattering, zeta potential analysis, electron microscopy, spectroscopy, thermal analysis, drug-loading and release studies, are also reviewed. Particular attention is given to the role of polymer composition and surface functionalization in controlling nanoparticle stability, drug encapsulation, cellular interaction, and release behavior.
Finally, the lecture explores the applications of polymeric Janus nanoparticles in drug delivery, including targeted delivery, combination therapy, controlled and stimuli-responsive drug release, and delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs. The distinctive asymmetric structure of Janus nanoparticles provides a versatile platform for integrating multiple functions into a single nanocarrier and may contribute to the development of more effective and adaptable drug-delivery systems.
| Has the manuscript been published | not published |
|---|---|
| Intend to be published in the IJPS ? | Yes |
