Bench-to-bedside development of multifunctional flexible embolic agents

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Interventional Radiology
• Oncology

Background:

• Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) offers survival benefits for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
• Conventional TACE has limitations including side effects, limited efficacy, and narrow indications.
• Emerging particulate embolic agents aim to overcome these limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of current and emerging micro/nano particulate embolization materials for TACE.
• To highlight the features, functions, and applications of these advanced materials.
• To discuss novel liquid metal-based embolic agents and future directions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of recent literature on micro/nano materials for TACE.
• Identification and description of typical features, functions, and applications.
• Analysis of liquid metals as advanced embolic agents.

Main Results:

• Micro/nano particulate embolic agents offer improved degradability, drug delivery, detectability, and targetability.
• Liquid metal-based agents present multifunctional and flexible embolic properties.
• Various materials show promise for enhanced tumor response and reduced complications.

Conclusions:

• Emerging micro/nano materials and liquid metal agents represent significant advancements in TACE technology.
• These novel embolic agents hold potential to improve treatment outcomes for HCC patients.
• Further research and development in material science are crucial for optimizing TACE therapy.