Breath and Life: Emerging Nanotechnologies for Cystic Fibrosis Therapy

ABSTRACT: The treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) remains challenging due to formidable biological barriers in the lungs, including thick mucus and resilient biofilms that severely limit the efficacy of conventional therapies. Nanotechnology, engineered to overcome these barriers, is emerging as a transformative approach for CF therapy. This opinion highlighted the most recent and advanced nanotechnologies, categorizing them into four strategic frontiers: (1) nanocarriers that achieve mucus penetration through surface modifications; (2) nanoplatforms for efficient delivery of genetic therapeutics; (3) nanocarriers for antimicrobial delivery to cure infections associated with CF; and (4) combinatorial nanomedicines for synchronized delivery of multiple drugs. We concluded that, with the help of these nanotechnologies, therapies for CF will now undergo a paradigm shift, moving CF from a fatal disease to a treatable and potentially curable one. Although the clinical transition is challenging, it holds immense promise for revolutionizing CF management.