Nanotechnology-Based Drug Delivery/Treatment Methods for Ischemic Heart Diseases

Ischemic heart conditions are some of the most prevalent disorders in the United States. These diseases also cause a significant number of mortalities each year. Despite considerable advances in treatment of the ischemic and infarct heart, many patients still develop complications and often progress to heart failure. These outcomes are typically related to factors such as the inability to deliver medication to the affected area, lack of successful stem cell implantation, improper tissue regeneration, and additional damage caused after reperfusion to ischemic tissues. The use of nanotechnology in the treatment of the ischemic and infarct heart has shown promising results for therapeutic improvement. This review focuses on several nanotechnologybased treatments for ischemic heart diseases including simple and modified drug/stem cell delivery systems ranging from magnetic, antibody-linked, and mesoporous silica nanoparticles. Additional nanotechnology systems such as nanoscaffolds and graphene compounds assist the repair of damaged cardiac tissue, therefore, increasing treatment efficacy. Based on these technologies, future models such as multi-functional nanoparticles should be considered for further advancement in this area. Abbreviations: CAD, coronary artery disease; ECM, extracellular matrix; GO, graphene oxide; IHD, ischemic heart disease; IR, ischemic reperfusion; MI, myocardial infarction; MSC, mesenchymal stem cell; nano-DDS, nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery system; PEG, polyethylene glycol; ROS, reactive oxygen species.