Cyclodextrin-based nanosponges: a versatile platform for cancer nanotherapeutics development.

Area of Science:

• Nanomedicine
• Biotechnology
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Nanosponges (NSs) are advanced cyclodextrin (CD)-based polymeric systems with broad applications.
• NS technology improves drug solubilization, stability, controlled release, and bioavailability.
• Significant research focuses on NS applications in cancer therapeutics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the current state of cyclodextrin-based nanosponges in cancer therapeutics.
• To highlight the problems associated with small-molecule anticancer drugs.
• To present NS as a solution for enhancing anticancer drug delivery and efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of nanosponges (NSs) and cyclodextrin (CD)-based formulations for cancer therapy.
• Focus on small-molecule anticancer drugs and their physicochemical and pharmacological challenges.
• Analysis of specific drug examples including camptothecin, curcumin, paclitaxel, and doxorubicin.

Main Results:

• Nanosponges effectively address challenges like poor solubility and bioavailability of anticancer drugs.
• NS formulations have demonstrated enhanced activity and targeted delivery for various chemotherapeutics.
• Specific examples show successful application of NS for camptothecin, curcumin, paclitaxel, and doxorubicin.

Conclusions:

• Cyclodextrin-based nanosponges represent a promising nanotechnology for improving small-molecule anticancer drug delivery.
• NS technology offers a versatile platform for developing more effective cancer therapeutics.
• Further research in NS-aided cancer therapeutics is crucial for clinical translation.