Research Topic description: Virus-like particles (VLPs) have emerged as a pivotal tool in nanotechnology, providing a unique platform for the development of innovative applications across diverse fields. Structurally similar to viruses but devoid of genetic material, VLPs are non-infectious and exhibit high versatility. This unique combination renders them excellent candidates for a variety of applications, including therapeutic delivery systems, environmental remediation, and synthetic biology. Although there have been significant advances within this field, many possible uses for VLPs are still not fully explored. Research is particularly needed to expand on their biocompatibility, specific cell-targeting capabilities, and potential for functionalization with various molecules, opening new pathways for innovative applications in medicine and environmental remediation.

This Research Topic explores recent advancements and novel applications for VLPs, extending the frontiers of what these nanoscale structures can accomplish. This Topic will compile existing challenges and tap into the unexplored potential of VLPs across vital sectors such as therapeutics, environmental management, and synthetic biology. For instance, in therapeutic applications, engineered VLPs could revolutionize drug delivery, immunotherapy, and vaccine development, enhancing treatment efficacy and safety. In the environmental sector, VLPs are promising for bioremediation and sustainable agricultural practices, which could revolutionize pollutant management and soil health. Furthermore, in synthetic biology, VLPs can be used to innovate novel biosensors and bio-factories, expanding their application in industrial biotechnology.

This Research Topic invites contributions that explore the diverse applications of VLPs, emphasizing their role in the development of novel nanotechnological solutions. We welcome articles, including Original Research, Reviews, Mini-Reviews, and Perspective articles, focusing on, but not limited to, the following themes:

Therapeutics: VLP-based drug delivery systems, vaccine development, and immunotherapy strategies.

Environmental Solutions: Utilization of VLPs in bioremediation, pollutant detection, and sustainable agricultural practices.

Synthetic Biology: Design and development of VLPs as biosensors, bio-factories, and gene-editing.

Submissions integrating experimental, computational, and theoretical approaches are particularly valuable, providing fresh perspectives into the potential applications of VLPs within the realm of nanotechnology.

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Innovative Nanotechnological Applications of Virus-Like Particles: New Frontiers in Therapeutics, Environment, and Synthetic Biology

Topic Coordinator