Nanomaterials in Regulating Lipid Metabolism
摘要
Lipid metabolism refers to the processes by which lipids are synthesized, transported, stored, and metabolized in the body. It plays a vital role in energy homeostasis, cellular signaling, and maintain membrane structure integrity. Dysregulation of lipid metabolism contributes to metabolic disorders such as obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Nanomaterials have gathered considerable attention in recent years for their potential applications in regulating metabolic processes, particularly lipid metabolism. Their unique physical and chemical properties enable them to be used for targeted drug delivery, biosensing, and as agents to modify metabolic pathways. Recent advancements in nanotechnology have introduced innovative strategies for the precise modulation of lipid metabolism using engineered nanomaterials. These nanoplatforms, including nanoparticles, liposomes, dendrimers, and nanostructured polymers, offer unique physicochemical properties such as high surface-to-volume ratios and controlled release capabilities. Nanomaterials can effectively deliver bioactive compounds, genetic materials, or small interfering RNA (siRNA) to specific tissues or cellular organelles, enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing off-target effects. Moreover, emerging studies have established their ability to influence lipid pathways directly by interacting with enzymes, lipid transport proteins, and signaling cascades. This book chapter unravels the potential of nanomaterials in regulating lipid metabolism, with an emphasis on their applications in targeted therapy, metabolic function, and disease management. By heading the gap between nanotechnology and lipid biology, this interdisciplinary approach holds promise for transformative advancements in metabolic health.