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Gold Nanoconjugates for miRNA Modulation in Cancer Therapy: From miRNA Silencing to miRNA Mimics
Diana P Sousa1,2, João Conde1,2
1NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa 1169-056, Portugal.
Abstract:
Cancer is a major healthcare burden and cause of death worldwide, with an estimated 19.3 million new cancer cases and 10 million cancer deaths globally only in 2020. While several anticancer therapeutics are available to date, many of these still show low treatment efficacy and high off-target effects and adverse reactions. This prompts a serious need to develop novel therapies that can decrease the side effects and increase treatment efficacy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can have a role in tumor development and progression, making them important targets for the improvement of anticancer therapies. In this context, gold nanoparticles have been widely studied for different clinical applications due to their biocompatibility and possibility of customization, and gold nanoconjugates targeting miRNAs are being developed for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Here we summarize the research developed so far and how it can contribute to cancer treatment, discuss how it can be improved, and present the current challenges and future perspectives on their design and application.
Insights
Gold nanoparticles targeting microRNAs offer a promising new avenue for cancer therapy, aiming to improve treatment efficacy and reduce side effects. This research explores their potential, challenges, and future directions in oncology.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nanomedicine
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Cancer poses a significant global health challenge, with existing therapies often limited by efficacy and adverse effects.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in cancer development and progression, representing potential therapeutic targets.
- Gold nanoparticles offer biocompatibility and customizability, making them suitable for targeted drug delivery and diagnostics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on gold nanoconjugates for miRNA-targeted cancer therapy.
- To discuss improvements, challenges, and future perspectives in the design and application of these nanoconjugates.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies involving gold nanoparticles and miRNA targeting in cancer.
- Analysis of research data on efficacy, side effects, and clinical applications.
- Discussion of design principles and future research directions.
Main Results:
- Gold nanoconjugates show potential for targeted cancer diagnosis and treatment by modulating miRNA activity.
- These nanoconjugates can potentially enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing off-target effects.
- Current research highlights the need for further development to overcome challenges in clinical translation.
Conclusions:
- Gold nanoconjugates targeting miRNAs represent a promising strategy for advancing cancer treatment.
- Further research is essential to optimize nanoconjugate design and application for improved patient outcomes.
- Addressing current challenges will pave the way for novel miRNA-based nanotherapies in oncology.
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