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Theranostic small interfering RNA nanoparticles in cancer precision nanomedicine

Zhihang Chen1, Balaji Krishnamachary1, Jesus Pachecho-Torres1

  • 1Division of Cancer Imaging Research, The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.

Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews. Nanomedicine and Nanobiotechnology
|October 24, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Theranostic nanomedicine offers a promising approach for delivering small interfering RNA (siRNA) in cancer precision medicine. These platforms integrate therapeutic and imaging capabilities to overcome challenges in systemic siRNA delivery.

Area of Science:

  • Nanomedicine
  • Oncologic Disease
  • In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging

Background:

  • Small interfering RNA (siRNA) shows potential for cancer precision medicine by downregulating target gene expression.
  • Systemic delivery of siRNA faces challenges including poor stability, pharmacokinetics, and biodistribution in vivo.
  • Theranostic nanomedicine, combining therapy and diagnostics, is emerging as a solution for targeted siRNA delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent advancements in theranostic nanoplatforms for siRNA delivery in cancer treatment.
  • To discuss the opportunities and challenges associated with using theranostic nanomedicine for gene-specific therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on theranostic nanoplatforms for siRNA delivery.
  • Analysis of nanoplatform capabilities for cargo transport, imaging, and therapeutic functions.

Main Results:

  • Theranostic nanomedicine platforms demonstrate high capacity for carrying siRNA and integrating imaging functionalities.
  • These platforms show potential for overcoming limitations in current siRNA systemic delivery methods.

Conclusions:

  • Theranostic nanomedicine represents a significant advancement for precision medicine, particularly in oncologic gene-specific treatments.
  • Further research is needed to address the challenges and fully realize the potential of these integrated nanoplatforms.
Keywords:
cancermolecular imagingnanomedicinesiRNAtheranostics

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