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Surface-enhanced Resonance Raman Scattering Nanoprobe Ratiometry for Detecting Microscopic Ovarian Cancer via Folate Receptor Targeting
Published on: March 25, 2019
The Development of Nanoparticles for the Detection and Imaging of Ovarian Cancers
Edward Henderson1,2, Gabriel Huynh1, Kirsty Wilson2
1Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia.
Abstract:
Ovarian cancer remains as one of the most lethal gynecological cancers to date, with major challenges associated with screening, diagnosis and treatment of the disease and an urgent need for new technologies that can meet these challenges. Nanomaterials provide new opportunities in diagnosis and therapeutic management of many different types of cancers. In this review, we highlight recent promising developments of nanoparticles designed specifically for the detection or imaging of ovarian cancer that have reached the preclinical stage of development. This includes contrast agents, molecular imaging agents and intraoperative aids that have been designed for integration into standard imaging procedures. While numerous nanoparticle systems have been developed for ovarian cancer detection and imaging, specific design criteria governing nanomaterial targeting, biodistribution and clearance from the peritoneal cavity remain key challenges that need to be overcome before these promising tools can accomplish significant breakthroughs into the clinical setting.
Insights
Nanoparticles show promise for early ovarian cancer detection and imaging, offering new diagnostic tools. Overcoming challenges in targeting and clearance is crucial for clinical application.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Oncology
Background:
- Ovarian cancer is a leading cause of gynecological cancer deaths.
- Current screening and diagnostic methods face significant challenges.
- New technologies are urgently needed for improved ovarian cancer management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in nanoparticles for ovarian cancer detection and imaging.
- To highlight nanoparticles that have reached the preclinical stage.
- To discuss challenges hindering clinical translation.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical studies on nanoparticles for ovarian cancer.
- Focus on nanoparticles as contrast agents, molecular imaging agents, and intraoperative aids.
- Analysis of design criteria for nanomaterial targeting, biodistribution, and clearance.
Main Results:
- Numerous nanoparticle systems have been developed for ovarian cancer detection and imaging.
- These include agents for integration into standard imaging procedures.
- Promising preclinical developments exist for diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
Conclusions:
- Nanoparticles offer significant potential for ovarian cancer diagnosis and imaging.
- Key challenges remain in nanomaterial targeting, biodistribution, and peritoneal clearance.
- Further research is needed to overcome these hurdles for clinical breakthroughs.
