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Published on: February 8, 2017
Cell-nanocarrier drug delivery system: a promising strategy for cancer therapy
Jiefen Yang1,2, Xiongxi Shi1,2, Yanting Kuang2,3
1Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1, Qiuyang Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
Tumor targeting has been a great challenge for drug delivery systems. A number of nanotechnology-derived drug carriers have been developed for cancer treatment to improve efficacy and biocompatibility. Among them, the emergence of cell-nanocarriers has attracted great attention, which simulates cell function and has good biocompatibility. They can also escape the clearance of reticuloendothelial system, showing a long-cycle effect. The inherent tumor migration and tumor homing ability of cells increase their significance as tumor-targeting vectors. In this review, we focus on the combination of stem cells, immune cells, red blood cells, and cell membranes to nanocarriers, which enable chemotherapy agents to efficiently target lesion sites and improve drug distribution while being low toxic and safe. In addition, we discuss the pros and cons of these nanoparticles as well as the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Although research to address these limitations is still ongoing, this promising tumor-targeted drug delivery system will provide a safe and effective platform against cancer.
Insights
Cell-nanocarriers offer a promising solution for targeted cancer drug delivery. By leveraging natural cell properties, these nanocarriers enhance drug distribution to tumors, improving efficacy and safety.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Oncology
Background:
- Tumor targeting remains a significant challenge in drug delivery systems.
- Nanotechnology-derived drug carriers have been developed to enhance cancer treatment efficacy and biocompatibility.
- Cell-nanocarriers, mimicking cell functions, offer improved biocompatibility and prolonged effects by evading the reticuloendothelial system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the application of cell-nanocarriers for targeted tumor drug delivery.
- To explore the potential of combining various cell types (stem cells, immune cells, red blood cells) and cell membranes with nanocarriers.
- To discuss the advantages, disadvantages, challenges, and future opportunities of these advanced drug delivery systems.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on cell-nanocarrier technology for cancer therapy.
- Focus on integrating stem cells, immune cells, red blood cells, and cell membranes into nanocarrier designs.
- Analysis of the targeting efficiency, drug distribution, toxicity, and safety profiles of these systems.
Main Results:
- Cell-nanocarriers demonstrate inherent tumor migration and homing abilities, acting as effective targeting vectors.
- Combining cells/membranes with nanocarriers facilitates efficient drug targeting to lesion sites.
- These systems improve drug distribution, reduce toxicity, and offer a safer alternative for chemotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Cell-nanocarriers represent a promising platform for safe and effective tumor-targeted drug delivery in cancer treatment.
- Further research is needed to overcome current limitations and optimize these systems.
- The inherent biological properties of cells enhance the therapeutic potential of nanocarriers against cancer.
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