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Published on: April 26, 2016
Recent advances in dual-ligand targeted nanocarriers for cancer therapy
Nabab Khan1, Ruchika1, Rakesh Kumar Dhritlahre1
1Formulation Laboratory, Dietetics and Nutrition Technology Division, CSIR - Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur 176 061, HP, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad 201 002, UP, India.
Abstract:
Nanocarriers (NCs) containing targeting ligands have received significant attention in recent years because of their ability to enhance cancer cell recognition, which in turn improves both their accuracy and the therapeutic efficacy of their payloads. A promising approach in this area is the use of dual ligands, in which NCs are functionalized with two different targeting ligands, enabling them to specifically recognize and interact with two different biomarkers present on cancer cells for more efficient targeting compared with single-ligand targeted nanocarriers. Herein, we highlight recent advances in dual-ligand targeted NCs with particular emphasis on their potential for improving therapeutic outcomes for cancer therapy.
Insights
Dual-ligand nanocarriers (NCs) offer improved cancer cell targeting by binding to two biomarkers. This dual-targeting approach enhances therapeutic accuracy and efficacy compared to single-ligand NCs.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Cancer Therapy
Background:
- Nanocarriers (NCs) functionalized with targeting ligands are crucial for enhancing cancer cell recognition.
- Improved targeting accuracy and therapeutic efficacy of drug payloads are key goals in cancer therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight recent advances in dual-ligand targeted nanocarriers (NCs).
- To emphasize the potential of dual-ligand NCs for improving cancer therapeutic outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Functionalization of NCs with two distinct targeting ligands.
- Evaluation of dual-ligand NCs for specific recognition of two cancer cell biomarkers.
- Comparison of dual-ligand targeting efficiency against single-ligand nanocarriers.
Main Results:
- Dual-ligand targeted NCs demonstrate enhanced specificity and interaction with cancer cells.
- The dual-targeting strategy leads to more efficient cancer cell recognition compared to single-ligand systems.
Conclusions:
- Dual-ligand targeted NCs represent a promising advancement in cancer therapy.
- This approach holds significant potential for improving the precision and effectiveness of cancer treatments.
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