Advanced MXene-Based Micro- and Nanosystems for Targeted Drug Delivery in Cancer Therapy

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• MXenes, 2D materials with unique properties like high conductivity and biocompatibility, are explored for cancer therapy.
• Their photothermal effects, biocompatibility, and luminescence make them attractive for drug delivery systems.
• Challenges remain in optimizing MXene-based systems for clinical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in MXene-based targeted drug delivery systems for cancer therapy.
• To highlight the challenges and future directions in this research area.
• To encourage further investigation into MXene applications in oncology.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of MXene synthesis and functionalization for drug delivery.
• Analysis of MXene properties relevant to cancer therapy (photothermal, optical, electronic).
• Discussion of pharmacokinetic, biosafety, and targeting aspects of MXene-based systems.

Main Results:

• MXenes offer tunable properties for enhanced drug loading and release.
• Demonstrated potential for photothermal therapy and imaging-guided drug delivery.
• Identified key challenges including controlled functionalization and in vivo performance.

Conclusions:

• MXenes hold significant potential for developing advanced targeted drug delivery systems in cancer therapy.
• Addressing challenges in pharmacokinetics, biosafety, and clinical translation is crucial for realizing their full potential.
• Continued research is essential to optimize MXene-based nanomedicines for effective cancer treatment.