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Updated: Jul 30, 2025

A Comprehensive Procedure to Evaluate the In Vivo Performance of Cancer Nanomedicines
Published on: March 4, 2017
A Recent Review on Cancer Nanomedicine
Paras Mani Giri1, Anurag Banerjee1, Buddhadev Layek1
1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Professions, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA.
Abstract:
Cancer is one of the most prevalent diseases globally and is the second major cause of death in the United States. Despite the continuous efforts to understand tumor mechanisms and various approaches taken for treatment over decades, no significant improvements have been observed in cancer therapy. Lack of tumor specificity, dose-related toxicity, low bioavailability, and lack of stability of chemotherapeutics are major hindrances to cancer treatment. Nanomedicine has drawn the attention of many researchers due to its potential for tumor-specific delivery while minimizing unwanted side effects. The application of these nanoparticles is not limited to just therapeutic uses; some of them have shown to have extremely promising diagnostic potential. In this review, we describe and compare various types of nanoparticles and their role in advancing cancer treatment. We further highlight various nanoformulations currently approved for cancer therapy as well as under different phases of clinical trials. Finally, we discuss the prospect of nanomedicine in cancer management.
Insights
Nanomedicine offers targeted cancer treatment and diagnosis, overcoming limitations of traditional chemotherapy. This review explores nanoparticles for improved cancer therapy and management.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Materials Science
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Cancer remains a leading global cause of death, with conventional therapies facing significant challenges.
- Limitations of chemotherapy include poor tumor specificity, toxicity, and low bioavailability.
- Nanomedicine presents a promising alternative for targeted cancer delivery and reduced side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and compare various nanoparticles for cancer treatment.
- To highlight approved and clinical-stage nanoformulations for cancer therapy.
- To discuss the future prospects of nanomedicine in cancer management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of nanoparticle applications in oncology.
- Comparison of different nanoparticle types and their mechanisms.
- Analysis of current clinical trials and approved nanomedicines.
Main Results:
- Nanoparticles demonstrate potential for tumor-specific drug delivery.
- Several nanoformulations show promising therapeutic and diagnostic capabilities.
- Nanomedicine is advancing cancer treatment and management strategies.
Conclusions:
- Nanomedicine offers significant advantages over traditional cancer therapies.
- Targeted delivery by nanoparticles can enhance efficacy and reduce toxicity.
- The field of nanomedicine holds great promise for the future of cancer care.
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