Advances in Nanotechnology for Nanomedicine: A Review of Applications in Helminthic Infections of Companion Animals

Helminthic infections are one of the frequently encountered parasitic diseases in companion animals, especially among dogs and cats, and negatively impact on overall health and well-being by causing malnutrition, gastrointestinal disturbances, immune suppression, and even a possible zoonotic threat. Most commonly used and current treatment options are conventional anthelmintic drugs, however, these drugs have limitations which consist of low solubility, poor absorption, drug resistance, and systemic toxicity. Nanomedicine is an emerging field of study that harnesses technology from nanoparticle and pharmacological combining, in efforts to address the current challenges and hindrances. Drug encapsulation within nanosystem structures such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles, and metallic nanoparticles can enhance drug solubility, drug stability, controlled release and targeted drug delivery, to improve traditional anthelmintic drug delivery and efficacy. In the studies mentioned in the manuscript, reports state that liposomal albendazole, polymeric praziquantel nanoparticles, nanoemulsion ivermectin, and metallic silver nanoparticles are alternative drug delivery avenues which improved antiparasitic drug efficacy, while reducing side effects. Although exciting, there are still concerns and noteworthy challenges such as large-scale formulation and production, long-term safety of nanoparticles and obtaining regulatory approval of novel and combination drugs. Future directions would require additional research; including but not limited to, developing species-specific and multifunctional nanoparticles that have antiparasitic, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties. Overall, nanomedicine is a promising frontier and offers a new and novel approach in managing helminthic infections in dogs and cats while improving therapeutic efficacy and outcomes, decreasing zoonotic risks, and fostering better health outcomes for companion animals. In addition, the integration of nanotechnology into antiparasitic therapy may further enhance treatment consistency and long-term reliability. These advancements emphasize the potential of nanomedicine to become an important component of future clinical veterinary practice.

کلیدواژه ها:

Helminthic infections ، Nanomedicine ، Anthelmintic resistance ، Drug delivery systems ، Nanoparticles ، Liposomes