July 2011

Torrent Pharmaceuticals Limited, is a dominant player in the therapeutic areas of cardiovascular (CV) and central nervous system (CNS) and has achieved significant presence in gastro-intestinal, diabetology, anti-infective and pain management segments. Torrent Pharma’s competitive advantage as a manufacturer stems from its world-class manufacturing facilities.

Parabolic Drugs Limited is one of the fast growing API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients) and API intermediate manufacturing and marketing company in the SME segment, with increasing international presence and a strong R&D foundation, based at Chandigarh, India.

About Authors: Akanksha Patel¹, S. P. Pawar²
1. M.Pharm, sem-II, Department of Pharmaceutics, A. R. College of pharmacy, V. V. Nagar - 388120, Anand Gujarat, India
2. Associate Professor, Department of Pharmaceutics, A. R. College of pharmacy, V. V. Nagar - 388120, Anand, Gujarat, India

Reference ID: PHARMATUTOR-ART-1074

Abstract
Recent years development in nanotechnology has opened up new horizons in the field of drug and gene delivery. Gold nanoparticles are one of the most versatile platform of nanotechnology. Here the emerging applications of them are discussed. Various approaches like direct drug conjugates, surface modification and light stimulus to achieve desired goals are utilized. Most promising applications of gold nanoparticles is organ targeting. Liver targeting, brain targeting and tumour targeting is achieved precisely with gold nanoparticles. Magnetic targeting in combination with iron nanoparticles can also be achieved with gold nanoparticles. Photodynamic and photothermal therapies for the destruction of tumours is possible with gold nanoparticles due to their unique property, localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). Gene delivery is the forthcoming application of gold nanoparticles. DNA can be made available to the site in intact form. Gold Nanoparticles are also used for the management diabetes. Gold nanoparticles are a good carrier for insulin. Gold nanoparticles are popular for the delivery of anticancer agents. New applications are still emerging for delivery of anticancer agents with gold nanoparticles. Due to their unique optical characteristics they are also used in the field of diagnostics. They have therefore been proposed as contrast agents for bioimaging, or as heating devices. Acoustic signals obtained are then utilized. This imaging technique allows recognition of early biochemical, physiological, and anatomical changes before manifestation of gross pathological changes.