Several types of nanoparticles are used in medical applications: - Liposomes: These are spherical vesicles containing an aqueous core, ideal for delivering hydrophilic drugs. - Polymeric Nanoparticles: Made from biodegradable polymers, these are excellent for controlled and sustained release of drugs. - Metallic Nanoparticles: These, such as gold or silver nanoparticles, have unique properties that can be harnessed for diagnostic as well as therapeutic purposes. - Dendrimers: These are highly branched, star-shaped polymers that offer multiple sites for drug attachment.