Nanoparticle-Based Treatment Approaches for Skin Cancer: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Nanotechnology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Nanoparticles offer potential as antineoplastic agents and drug carriers in cancer treatment.
• Clinical oncology faces limitations due to low success rates and toxicity, despite advances in immunomodulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advances in drug delivery nanoparticles for systemic and topical skin cancer treatment.
• To assess the efficacy and properties of nanoparticles in preclinical and clinical settings for skin cancer.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of controlled trials, meta-analyses, and Cochrane reviews.
• Inclusion criteria focused on nanoparticle utility for skin cancer, treatment outcomes, subject population, and English language full-text articles.
• Analysis of 43 selected articles.

Main Results:

• Nanoscale systems exhibit significant antineoplastic and anti-metastasis properties, including enhanced drug bioavailability, reduced toxicity, and improved tumor growth inhibition.
• Nanoparticle drug delivery systems demonstrate the enhanced permeability and retention effect.
• Emerging evidence highlights the potential of nanoparticles in targeting primary and metastatic skin cancers.

Conclusions:

• Nanoparticles hold significant promise for advancing skin cancer treatment through improved drug delivery and targeted therapies.
• Despite their potential, nanoformulations for skin cancers are less developed compared to other cancer types.
• Further development and clinical translation of nanoformulations are crucial for overcoming current limitations in skin cancer therapy.