Cell membrane-derived nanoparticles: emerging clinical opportunities for targeted drug delivery

Biofunctionalization of nanoparticles (NPs) is an essential component in targeted drug delivery. However, current nanotechnology remains inadequate to imitate complex intercellular interactions existing in physiological conditions in human bodies. Emerging concepts have been explored to utilize human cells to generate cell membrane-formed NPs because cells retain inherent abilities to interact with human tissues compared with synthetic nanomaterials. Neutrophils, red blood cells (RBCs), platelets and monocytes have been employed to form therapeutic NPs to treat vascular disease and cancer, and these novel drug delivery platforms show the translation potential to improve patient quality of life. In this review, we will discuss the concept of cell membrane-formed NPs, the molecular mechanisms of their disease targeting and the potential of personalized nanomedicine.