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Intratumoral drug delivery with nanoparticulate carriers
1Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, USA.
Abstract:
Stiff extracellular matrix, elevated interstitial fluid pressure, and the affinity for the tumor cells in the peripheral region of a solid tumor mass have long been recognized as significant barriers to diffusion of small-molecular-weight drugs and antibodies. However, their impacts on nanoparticle-based drug delivery have begun to receive due attention only recently. This article reviews biological features of many solid tumors that influence transport of drugs and nanoparticles and properties of nanoparticles relevant to their intratumoral transport, studied in various tumor models. We also discuss several experimental approaches employed to date for enhancement of intratumoral nanoparticle penetration. The impact of nanoparticle distribution on the effectiveness of chemotherapy remains to be investigated and should be considered in the design of new nanoparticulate drug carriers.
Insights
Solid tumors present challenges for drug delivery due to their stiff matrix and high pressure. Nanoparticle drug delivery research is exploring ways to improve penetration into tumors.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Oncology
Background:
- Solid tumors exhibit physical barriers like stiff extracellular matrix and high interstitial fluid pressure, hindering drug diffusion.
- These barriers impede the transport of small-molecule drugs and antibodies, and their effect on nanoparticle drug delivery is a recent research focus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biological features of solid tumors affecting drug and nanoparticle transport.
- To discuss nanoparticle properties relevant to intratumoral transport.
- To explore experimental strategies for enhancing intratumoral nanoparticle penetration.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on tumor biology and nanoparticle transport.
- Analysis of various tumor models to understand nanoparticle behavior.
- Discussion of experimental approaches for improving nanoparticle delivery.
Main Results:
- Tumor microenvironment characteristics significantly influence nanoparticle distribution.
- Specific nanoparticle properties can be tailored to improve intratumoral penetration.
- Various experimental methods show promise in enhancing nanoparticle delivery into tumors.
Conclusions:
- Understanding tumor biological features is crucial for designing effective nanoparticle drug delivery systems.
- Further investigation is needed on how nanoparticle distribution impacts chemotherapy efficacy.
- Future nanoparticulate drug carrier designs should consider intratumoral transport dynamics.
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