Polymeric Nanomedicines: Between Tradition and Innovation

This chapter describes the evolution of polymer chemistry in the last decades. Orientation towards chemistry of life, getting some macromolecular compounds with curative properties and involvement in nanobiotechnology were the main decisions that preserve the importance of this field. On the other hand, weak points of the polymers have been identified which often represent a barrier to full acceptance of polymers in medical practice.

Overcoming these barriers and integrating polymers in medical practice is conditioned by adopting an interdisciplinary atittude, by abandonment of low-performing methodology and by opening toward innovation and originality.

Keywords: Magic bullet, macromolecular chemistry, polydispersity, biodegradable polymers, non-viral gene delivery, rheumatoid arthritis.