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Published on: May 22, 2020
Multifunctional nanoparticles: recent progress in cancer therapeutics
G Seeta Rama Raju1, Leah Benton, E Pavitra
1Department of Electronics and Radio Engineering, Optoelectronics and Nanodevices Laboratory, Kyung Hee University, 1 Seocheon-dong, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 446-701, Republic of Korea. gseetaramaraju@live.in jsyu@khu.ac.kr.
Abstract:
Although much progress has been made in treating cancers, cancer death rates in and around the United States are still high. Current treatments are either ineffective against some cancers or detrimental to patients, which decreases their quality of life. The use of nanotechnology in cancer therapy can potentially increase patient survival, reduce side effects, and reduce mortality rates because nanoparticles (NPs) have the potential to target only tumors and bypass healthy cells. NPs possess many features, including size, shape, charge, and composition, which allow them to carry chemotherapeutics to cancer cells. NPs can also be used in radiotherapy as radiosensitizers and in imaging as contrast agents. Many studies have performed in vitro and/or in vivo experiments on these particles in human and animal cell lines. This review discusses recent studies on different NPs and their potential use in cancer therapy.
Insights
Nanoparticles (NPs) offer a promising approach to cancer therapy by targeting tumors and minimizing damage to healthy cells. This review explores recent advancements in using NPs for improved cancer treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nanotechnology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Cancer remains a significant cause of mortality despite treatment advancements.
- Current cancer therapies often exhibit limited efficacy and severe side effects, impacting patient quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent studies on nanoparticles (NPs) for cancer therapy.
- To highlight the potential of NPs in improving cancer treatment efficacy and reducing patient side effects.
Main Methods:
- Review of in vitro and in vivo studies involving various nanoparticles.
- Analysis of NP characteristics (size, shape, charge, composition) for targeted drug delivery.
- Exploration of NP applications in chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and cancer imaging.
Main Results:
- Nanoparticles demonstrate potential for targeted delivery of chemotherapeutics to cancer cells.
- NPs can act as radiosensitizers in radiotherapy, enhancing treatment effectiveness.
- Nanoparticles show promise as contrast agents for improved cancer imaging.
Conclusions:
- Nanotechnology offers a promising avenue for enhancing cancer therapy.
- NPs have the potential to increase patient survival rates and reduce treatment-related mortality.
- Further research into NP applications could revolutionize cancer treatment strategies.
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