Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 18, 2026
Nanoparticle Delivery of an Oligonucleotide Payload in a Glioblastoma Multiforme Animal Model
Published on: September 27, 2024
Emerging nanodelivery strategies of RNAi molecules for colon cancer therapy: preclinical developments
Ziyad Binkhathlan1, Aws Alshamsan
1Nanomedicine Research Unit, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
Although local colonic delivery is achievable through several strategies, colon cancer is still considered one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Failure of chemotherapeutics to exhibit efficient anticancer activity might be attributed to the development of multidrug resistance (MDR) mechanisms including the overexpression of certain oncogenes such as MDRI/P-gp. One of the major reasons for the shortcoming of P-gp inhibitors in clinic is the nonspecific distribution of them to nontarget organs, which leads to reduced elimination and increased toxicity of its substrates including anticancer agents. Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness ofgene-silencing approaches in reversing the P-gp-mediated MDR. However, none have reached clinical trials yet. Several drug-delivery systems have been investigated primarily to address P-gp and the observed improved anticancer efficacy suggests that nanomedicine provides new opportunities to overcome MDR in cancer. In this review, novel therapeutic strategies for colon cancer therapy will be discussed in the context of P-gp inhibition by low-molecular-weight agents and RNAi molecules.
Insights
Novel nanomedicine strategies show promise in overcoming multidrug resistance (MDR) in colon cancer by targeting P-glycoprotein (P-gp). These approaches aim to improve chemotherapy efficacy and reduce toxicity for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Nanomedicine
Background:
- Colon cancer remains a leading cause of mortality globally.
- Multidrug resistance (MDR), often mediated by P-glycoprotein (P-gp) overexpression, limits chemotherapy effectiveness.
- Current P-gp inhibitors face challenges due to nonspecific distribution, leading to toxicity and reduced efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review novel therapeutic strategies for colon cancer.
- To discuss approaches for P-gp inhibition in overcoming MDR.
- To explore the potential of nanomedicine in enhancing anticancer efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Review of gene-silencing approaches (e.g., RNAi molecules) for MDR reversal.
- Investigation of nanomedicine-based drug delivery systems targeting P-gp.
- Analysis of low-molecular-weight agents for P-gp inhibition.
Main Results:
- Gene-silencing strategies show potential but are not yet in clinical trials.
- Nanomedicine offers promising avenues for overcoming P-gp-mediated MDR.
- Targeted delivery systems aim to improve drug distribution and reduce toxicity.
Conclusions:
- Nanomedicine presents new opportunities to combat MDR in colon cancer.
- Targeted P-gp inhibition through novel agents and delivery systems is crucial.
- Further research and clinical translation are needed to realize the full potential of these strategies.
Related Concept Videos
02:15Experimental RNAi
01:24Site-Targeted Drug Delivery Systems: Polymeric Carriers
02:30siRNA - Small Interfering RNAs
In the cytoplasm, siRNA is processed from a double-stranded RNA, which comes from either endogenous DNA transcription or exogenous sources like a virus. This double-stranded RNA is then cleaved by the ATP-dependent...
02:57Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against specific...