Nanodevices that acts as nanocarriers for controlled and directed drug delivery to select cells, organs or tissues in cardiovascular diseases.

Cardiovascular disease, which today represents the main cause of death worldwide, is a likely candidate for the application of nanotechnology in the near future. Nanocarriers are currently being developed to deliver medicine (smart drugs) to selected targets in cells and tissues of blood vessels and the heart, as well as to aid in diagnosis and screening for early detection and individualized treatment. Other applications of nanotechnology hold promise for the long run, such as using nanodevices for drug delivery or correcting the misfolding of proteins. With super-potent effects, nanoparticles should be able to evoke therapeutic effects at a lower dose and for longer periods. The development of nanodevices and nanocarriers must take an integral approach that considers many properties-physical, chemical, biological, biochemical, anatomical, morphological, physiological, pharmacological, toxicological, mechanical, electrical, magnetic, thermodynamic, and optical-in order to evaluate biocompatibility and therefore avoid toxicological and/or other adverse effects. Intensified research in relation to nanocarriers and other nanotechnology could help reduce morbidity and mortality in cardiovascular disease.