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Targeting integrins for cancer management using nanotherapeutic approaches: Recent advances and challenges
Khurshid Ahmad1, Eun Ju Lee1, Sibhghatulla Shaikh1
1Department of Medical Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea.
Abstract:
Integrins are the main cell surface receptors and execute multifaceted functions such as the bidirectional transmission of signals (i.e., inside-out and outside-in) and provide communication between cells and their microenvironments. Integrins are the key regulators of critical biological functions and contribute significantly to the promotion of cancer at almost every stage of disease progression from initial tumor formation to metastasis. Integrin expressions are frequently altered in different cancers, and consequently, several therapeutic strategies targeting integrins have been developed. Furthermore, nanotechnology-based approaches have been devised to overcome the intrinsic limitations of conventional therapies for cancer management, and have been shown to more precise, safer, and highly effective therapeutic tools. Although nanotechnology-based approaches have achieved substantial success for the management of cancer, certain obstacles remain such as inadequate knowledge of nano-bio interactions and the challenges associated with the three stages of clinical trials. This review highlights the different roles of integrins and of integrin-dependent signaling in various cancers and describes the applications of nanotherapeutics targeting integrins. In addition, we discuss RGD-based approaches and challenges posed to cancer management.
Insights
Integrins, crucial cell receptors, drive cancer progression and metastasis. Nanotechnology offers promising targeted therapies, but challenges in nano-bio interactions and clinical trials remain for effective cancer management.
Area of Science:
- Cell biology
- Oncology
- Nanomedicine
Background:
- Integrins are vital cell surface receptors mediating cell-environment communication and signal transduction.
- Altered integrin expression is common in cancers, implicating them in tumor formation and metastasis.
- Conventional cancer therapies face limitations, driving the need for advanced treatment modalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted roles of integrins and integrin-dependent signaling in various cancers.
- To explore the application of nanotherapeutics targeting integrins for cancer management.
- To discuss RGD-based strategies and associated challenges in cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on integrin function in cancer.
- Analysis of nanotherapeutic strategies targeting integrins.
- Discussion of RGD peptide applications and clinical trial hurdles.
Main Results:
- Integrins play critical roles in cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis.
- Nanotherapeutics targeting integrins demonstrate precision, safety, and efficacy in preclinical studies.
- RGD-based approaches show potential but require further investigation for clinical translation.
Conclusions:
- Integrin-targeted nanomedicine presents a promising avenue for improved cancer treatment.
- Further research into nano-bio interactions and clinical trial design is essential for successful implementation.
- Addressing current challenges will enhance the therapeutic potential of integrin-targeting nanotherapeutics in oncology.
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