Development of nanoparticle-based Toll-like receptor agonists for respiratory immunotherapy

Respiratory diseases are global health challenges demanding innovative immunotherapy solutions. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play a crucial role in immune responses, making them attractive therapeutic targets. This review examines nanoparticle-based Toll-like receptor agonists as a promising approach for respiratory immunotherapy. Nanoparticles offer targeted drug delivery and sustained release, ideal for enhancing TLR agonist efficacy. This article explores TLRs' role in immunomodulation, nanoparticle applications, design considerations, preclinical efficacy, safety assessments, challenges, and future prospects. Promising results from animal studies suggest enhanced immunological responses and reduced inflammation compared to conventional treatments. Safety concerns are addressed with insights from toxicity studies. Challenges include regulatory hurdles and biocompatibility, with strategies proposed for optimization. Nanoparticle-based TLR agonists hold great potential to transform respiratory disease treatment, warranting further research and collaboration for successful clinical translation. See also the graphical abstract(Fig. 1).