Liquidia Technologies is developing nanoparticles whose size, shape, particle cargo, and target specificity can be exquisitely controlled. In order to create its particles, Liquidia borrows fabrication methods originally developed by the electronics industry. I

Israeli start-up Nanolymf . believes its technology could be used to create oral versions of some of the biggest intravenous and injectable drugs on today's market, including lipophilic drugs that are not readily bioavailable because of biochemical barriers that block their absorption. Nanolymf's nanoencapsulation technology allows the drug to bypass metabolic filters in the intestine and liver, resulting in increased bioavailability following oral administration.

TransGenex Nanobiotech is taking a multi-pronged approach to building a nanotechnology company. In the short term, the company is generating revenue from sales of its custom nanoparticles and its Nanogene reagents that can be used to deliver genes to cells. It is also using its technology to develop diagnostic platforms, especially for lung and ovarian cancer. Finally, TransGenex plans to develop its own novel drug candidates. It's focusing first on products with anti-inflammatory properties, which could find application in asthma as well as several cancers.