Surface modification of nanoparticles: Methods and applications

This chapter discusses the various polymers used in the formulation of nanoparticles, fabrication and characterization techniques, surface modification methods, and the different types of targeting ligands that have been evaluated. Characterization of nanoparticles for size, morphology, and surface charge has been done using various microscopic techniques including scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. These techniques have also been used to understand the variation in the physical properties of particles after surface modification. The average particle diameter, their size distribution, and charge affect the physical stability and their in vivo distribution. Electron microscopy techniques are very useful in ascertaining the overall shape of polymeric nanoparticles, parameters that influence their safety and biodistribution. The surface charge of nanoparticles affects the physical stability and redispersibility of the polymer dispersion as well as their in vivo performance. Many techniques have been used to study the surface modification of nanoparticles.