Nanoparticle-Encapsulated Artemisinin Derivatives for Plasmodium falciparum: Comparative Efficacy, Pharmacokinetics, and Resistance Prevention
Mercy Latricia
Department of Pharmacognosy Kampala International University Uganda
Email: atricia.mercy@studwc.kiu.ac.ug
ABSTRACT
Artemisinin derivatives are the backbone of current malaria therapy, yet Plasmodium falciparum resistance threatens global control efforts. Poor solubility, short half-life, and suboptimal tissue distribution limit their efficacy. Nanoparticle encapsulation offers potential to enhance drug delivery, improve pharmacokinetics, and reduce resistance emergence. This review evaluated nanoparticle-encapsulated artemisinin derivatives, comparing efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and resistance prevention potential against P. falciparum. Literature was retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus 2010-2025 using search terms “artemisinin,” “nanoparticle,” and “Plasmodium falciparum,” focusing on comparative preclinical and clinical data. Liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, and nanocrystals have demonstrated improved solubility, prolonged circulation, and enhanced bioavailability. Encapsulation consistently increased in vitro and in vivo parasite clearance rates compared to free drug, with some formulations achieving extended half-life by two- to threefold. Pharmacokinetic benefits included sustained plasma concentrations above minimum inhibitory levels and improved distribution to infected erythrocytes. Several studies suggest reduced selection for resistant strains, potentially through sustained exposure and complete parasite clearance. Safety profiles are generally favorable, though long-term toxicity and large-scale production challenges remain. Nanoparticle-based artemisinin delivery holds promise for optimizing therapeutic efficacy and delaying resistance in P. falciparum. Further clinical validation, stability optimization for endemic settings, and cost-effective manufacturing are priorities to enable translational impact.
Keywords: Artemisinin derivatives, Nanoparticle delivery, Plasmodium falciparum, Pharmacokinetics, Resistance prevention.
CITE AS: Mercy Latricia (2025). Nanoparticle-Encapsulated Artemisinin Derivatives for Plasmodium falciparum: Comparative Efficacy, Pharmacokinetics, and Resistance Prevention. IDOSR JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES 11(2): 12-16. https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSR/JES/112.1216