Biocompatible polymersomes-based cancer theranostics: Towards multifunctional nanomedicine

Area of Science:

• Nanomedicine
• Polymer Chemistry
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Polymersomes are core-shell polymeric vesicles with tunable properties.
• They encapsulate hydrophilic and hydrophobic agents, ideal for drug delivery.
• Amphiphilic block copolymers enable design modifications for stability, release, and targeting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review nanoparticle formation methods for polymersomes in theranostic nanomedicine.
• To highlight recent advancements in polymersome-based theranostic systems.
• To discuss the clinical potential of biodegradable and biocompatible polymersomes.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on polymersome fabrication techniques.
• Analysis of amphiphilic block copolymer selection for specific applications.
• Examination of formulation strategies for drug encapsulation and release.

Main Results:

• Polymersomes offer versatile platforms for simultaneous drug delivery and imaging.
• Design parameters like molecular weight and block copolymer type influence stability and drug release.
• Functionalization allows for targeted delivery, enhancing therapeutic efficiency.

Conclusions:

• Polymersomes are promising theranostic nanoparticles due to their biocompatibility and biodegradability.
• Engineered polymersomes demonstrate significant potential for clinical applications in nanomedicine.
• Further research into fabrication methods will advance their theranostic capabilities.