From nanotechnology concepts to pioneering patents: Innovations in nanotherapeutic nutrition

Abstract

Recent advances in nano-nutrition have opened up new avenues for the treatment and prevention of a variety of health conditions. Emerging approaches focus on improving nutrient delivery, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy through novel nano-carrier systems. Leading patients, often facing chronic diseases or unique health challenges, are at the forefront of this advanced approach. Collaborative research and innovative clinical trials are providing invaluable insights into the real-world applications of nano-nutrition, helping to improve treatment modalities and ensure that nutritional therapies are effective, accessible, and sustainable. These innovations address global challenges such as malnutrition, obesity, and chronic diseases. Advances in food processing, sustainable sourcing, and nutrient delivery systems are enhancing access to and increasing the efficiency of essential nutrients. Additionally, digital tools such as artificial intelligence and wearable devices are enabling real-time monitoring of dietary habits, encouraging more informed and healthier food choices. Nanotechnology enables the precise delivery of therapeutic agents directly to diseased cells, reducing side effects and increasing therapeutic effects. Using nanoparticles, liposomes, and nano-polymers, the bioavailability of drugs is enhanced, their solubility is improved, and controlled release is enabled. In oncology, these technologies pave the way for more effective, personalized, and less invasive medical treatments. In addition to therapeutic applications, nanotechnology plays a major role in the development of functional foods and nutritional supplements that offer therapeutic benefits such as reduced inflammation, improved gut health, and prevention of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. It also contributes to ensuring food safety through smart packaging solutions with antimicrobial properties and real-time biomonitoring of food quality. Despite the transformative potential of these developments, challenges related to safety, regulatory frameworks, and long-term effects require careful consideration to ensure the safe integration of nanotechnology into nutrition and healthcare. This review highlights the latest innovations, applications, and future directions of nanotechnology in nutrition and disease prevention, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize global health.