Enhancing drug loading and release with hydroxyapatite nanoparticles for efficient drug delivery: A review synthesis methods, surface ion effects, and clinical prospects

Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HAp NPs) can be used as drug carriers as they can specifically target affected tissues and reduce side effects. HAp contains surface ions such as hydroxide ion (OH-), phosphate ion (PO43- ), and calcium ion (Ca2+) and some ions from impurities, such as fluoride (F-) and chloride (Cl- ), which depend on the raw material source. These surface ions are useful as traps to catch ions from the drug to increase drug loading capacity. The surface morphology structure and crystallinity of HAp NPs affect drug loading and release but strongly depend on the number of active ions present at the surface. This review describes various synthesis methods of HAp NPs and the bonding or interaction between the active ions of HAp NPs and the atoms of the drug, the effect of surface morphology to increase drug loading rates, and targeted drug release. Moreover, this review addresses current limitations and future challenges to provide a basis that can be helpful for successful utilization of HAp NPs in clinical settings as promising drug carriers.

Automated summary

This review discusses the advantages of using hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HAp NPs) as drug carriers, including their ability to specifically target affected tissues and reduce side effects. The article explores various synthesis methods of HAp NPs, the bonding or interaction between the active ions of HAp NPs and the atoms of the drug, the effect of surface morphology on drug loading and release, and addresses current limitations and future challenges.