Peptide-assembled nanoparticles targeting tumor cells and tumor microenvironment for cancer therapy

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Oncology

Background:

• Tumor cells and stromal cells overexpress cancer-specific markers, presenting therapeutic targets.
• Therapeutic peptides are increasingly important in cancer treatment.
• Peptides can self-assemble into nanoparticles for enhanced drug delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advances in peptide-based nanoparticles for cancer therapy.
• To highlight the targeting capabilities of these nanoparticles.
• To discuss their application in targeting various cells within the tumor microenvironment.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on peptide-based nanoparticles.
• Analysis of nanoparticle self-assembly and incorporation with polymers.
• Evaluation of nanoparticle properties like cell recognition, environmental response, and internalization.

Main Results:

• Peptide-based nanoparticles demonstrate enhanced cell recognition and internalization.
• These nanoparticles can be designed to respond to tumor microenvironments.
• Applications include targeting tumor cells, suppressive immune cells, fibrosis-related cells, and angiogenic vascular cells.

Conclusions:

• Peptide-based nanoparticles offer a promising platform for targeted cancer therapy.
• Their ability to target diverse cells in the tumor microenvironment enhances therapeutic potential.
• Further development holds significant promise for effective cancer treatment strategies.