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Cell Squeezing as a Robust, Microfluidic Intracellular Delivery Platform
Published on: November 7, 2013
Nanotechnology-based cell-mediated delivery systems for cancer therapy and diagnosis
Vahid Alimardani1,2, Zahra Rahiminezhad1,2, Mahvash DehghanKhold1,2
1Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
Abstract:
The global prevalence of cancer is increasing, necessitating new additions to traditional treatments and diagnoses to address shortcomings such as ineffectiveness, complications, and high cost. In this context, nano and microparticulate carriers stand out due to their unique properties such as controlled release, higher bioavailability, and lower toxicity. Despite their popularity, they face several challenges including rapid liver uptake, low chemical stability in blood circulation, immunogenicity concerns, and acute adverse effects. Cell-mediated delivery systems are important topics to research because of their biocompatibility, biodegradability, prolonged delivery, high loading capacity, and targeted drug delivery capabilities. To date, a variety of cells including blood, immune, cancer, and stem cells, sperm, and bacteria have been combined with nanoparticles to develop efficient targeted cancer delivery or diagnosis systems. The review paper aimed to provide an overview of the potential applications of cell-based delivery systems in cancer therapy and diagnosis.
Insights
Cell-based delivery systems offer promising advancements for cancer therapy and diagnosis, overcoming limitations of traditional treatments and nano/microcarriers. Research explores their potential for targeted drug delivery and improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Oncology
Background:
- Rising global cancer prevalence necessitates novel therapeutic and diagnostic strategies.
- Nano and microparticulate carriers show promise but face challenges like toxicity and instability.
- Cell-mediated delivery systems offer advantages in biocompatibility, biodegradability, and targeted drug delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential applications of cell-based delivery systems in cancer therapy.
- To provide an overview of cell-based systems for cancer diagnosis.
- To highlight advancements in overcoming current treatment and diagnostic limitations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of cell-based delivery systems in cancer research.
- Analysis of various cell types (blood, immune, stem, bacteria) used in conjunction with nanoparticles.
- Examination of properties like controlled release, bioavailability, and targeted delivery.
Main Results:
- Cell-based systems demonstrate potential for enhanced biocompatibility and biodegradability.
- These systems can achieve prolonged drug delivery and high loading capacity.
- Various cell types have been successfully integrated with nanoparticles for targeted cancer applications.
Conclusions:
- Cell-mediated delivery systems represent a significant area of research for improved cancer treatment.
- These systems hold promise for more effective and targeted cancer diagnosis.
- Further research into cell-based carriers could overcome existing therapeutic and diagnostic challenges.
