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Multi-timescale Microscopy Methods for the Characterization of Fluorescently-labeled Microbubbles for Ultrasound-Triggered Drug Release
Published on: June 12, 2021
4.8K
Nano/microparticles and ultrasound contrast agents
Shu-Guang Zheng1, Hui-Xiong Xu1, Hang-Rong Chen1
1Shu-Guang Zheng, Hui-Xiong Xu, Department of Medical Ultrasound, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China.
World Journal of Radiology
|January 1, 2014
Summary
Multifunctional nanoparticles offer improved tumor targeting and therapeutic capabilities compared to traditional microbubbles for enhanced cancer treatment and imaging. These advanced nanomaterials are revolutionizing theranostics and drug delivery in oncology.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Oncology
Background:
- Traditional microbubbles used in ultrasound imaging have limitations in tumor targeting due to their size and short circulation time.
- Multifunctional and theranostic nanoparticles are emerging as advanced alternatives with enhanced properties for biomedical applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the trends and advances in multifunctional and theranostic nanoparticles for cancer treatment.
- To highlight the advantages of nanoparticles over traditional microbubbles for improved tumor targeting and therapeutic efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on nanomaterials applied in pre-clinical and clinical trials for cancer therapy and imaging.
- Discussion of various nanomaterial types including liposomes, polymers, micelles, dendrimers, emulsions, quantum dots, and solid nanoparticles.
Main Results:
- Nanoparticles offer advantages like tumor targeting (passive or active), multi-modal imaging (MRI, ultrasonography, fluorescence), drug delivery, and combined therapies.
- Various nanomaterials are being explored and applied in pre-clinical and clinical settings for cancer treatment.
Conclusions:
- Multifunctional and theranostic nanoparticles show significant promise for cancer treatment, offering improved targeting and therapeutic strategies.
- Continued research and development in nanoparticle synthesis and application are crucial for advancing cancer care.

