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Antibody-Functionalized Nanoformulations for Targeted Therapy of Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review
Ana Cepero1,2,3, Cristina Luque1,2,3, Laura Cabeza1,2,3
1Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, Granada, 18100, Spain.
Abstract:
The failure of chemotherapeutic treatment in colorectal cancer (CRC), the second most mortal cancer worldwide, is associated with several drug limitations, such as non-selective distribution, short half-life, and development of multiple resistances. One of the most promising strategies in CRC therapy is the development of delivery systems based on nanomaterials that can transport antitumor agents to the tumor site more efficiently, increasing accumulation within the tumor and thus the antitumor effect. In addition to taking advantage of the increased permeability and retention effect (EPR) of solid tumors, these nanoformulations can be conjugated with monoclonal antibodies that recognize molecular markers that are specifically over-expressed on CRC cells. Active targeting of nanoformulations reduces the adverse effects associated with the cytotoxic activity of drugs in healthy tissues, which will be of interest for improving the quality of life of cancer patients in the future. This review focuses on in vitro and in vivo studies of drug delivery nanoformulations functionalized with monoclonal antibodies for targeted therapy of CRC.
Insights
Nanomaterials improve colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment by delivering drugs directly to tumors. Antibody-functionalized nanoparticles enhance drug efficacy and reduce side effects for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nanotechnology
- Drug Delivery
Background:
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) poses a significant global health challenge, with chemotherapies often failing due to drug limitations.
- Ineffective drug distribution, short half-lives, and acquired resistance impede current CRC treatment efficacy.
- Nanomaterial-based drug delivery systems offer a promising strategy to overcome these limitations in CRC therapy.
Approach:
- This review examines in vitro and in vivo studies of nano-delivery systems for colorectal cancer treatment.
- Focuses on nanoformulations conjugated with monoclonal antibodies for active targeting of CRC cells.
- Explores leveraging the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect in solid tumors.
Key Points:
- Nanomaterials can improve drug distribution, increase tumor accumulation, and enhance the antitumor effect.
- Monoclonal antibody conjugation enables active targeting, reducing off-target toxicity in healthy tissues.
- Targeted nano-delivery systems show potential for improving the quality of life for cancer patients.
Conclusions:
- Monoclonal antibody-functionalized nano-drug delivery systems show significant potential for targeted colorectal cancer therapy.
- These targeted approaches can improve therapeutic efficacy while minimizing adverse effects on healthy tissues.
- Future advancements in this area promise to enhance the quality of life for colorectal cancer patients.
