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Targeted Nanoparticles: the Smart Way for the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer
Ahmed A H Abdellatif1,2, Abdulmajeed S Alshubrumi3, Mahmoud A Younis4
1Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, 51452, Buraydah, Al Qassim, Saudi Arabia. a.abdellatif@qu.edu.sa.
Abstract:
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a widespread cancer that starts in the digestive tract. It is the third most common cause of cancer deaths around the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates an expected death toll of over 1 million cases annually. The limited therapeutic options as well as the drawbacks of the existing therapies necessitate the development of non-classic treatment approaches. Nanotechnology has led the evolution of valuable drug delivery systems thanks to their ability to control drug release and precisely target a wide variety of cancers. This has also been extended to the treatment of CRC. Herein, we shed light on the pertinent research that has been performed on the potential applications of nanoparticles in the treatment of CRC. The various types of nanoparticles in addition to their properties, applications, targeting approaches, merits, and demerits are discussed. Furthermore, innovative therapies for CRC, including gene therapies and immunotherapies, are also highlighted. Eventually, the research gaps, the clinical potential of such delivery systems, and a future outlook on their development are inspired.
Insights
Nanoparticles offer promising advancements for colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment by enabling targeted drug delivery and overcoming limitations of current therapies. This research explores nanoparticle applications, innovative treatments, and future clinical potential for CRC management.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nanomedicine
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally, with over one million deaths annually.
- Existing CRC therapies have limitations, driving the need for novel treatment strategies.
- Nanotechnology provides advanced drug delivery systems with enhanced control and targeting capabilities for various cancers, including CRC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on nanoparticle applications for colorectal cancer treatment.
- To discuss various nanoparticle types, their properties, and targeting strategies in CRC therapy.
- To highlight innovative CRC treatments like gene and immunotherapies, alongside nanoparticle delivery systems.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of research on nanoparticles in colorectal cancer treatment.
- Analysis of nanoparticle properties, applications, targeting mechanisms, advantages, and disadvantages.
- Exploration of emerging therapies such as gene and immunotherapies for CRC.
Main Results:
- Nanoparticles demonstrate significant potential for targeted drug delivery in CRC treatment.
- Various nanoparticle formulations offer distinct advantages and disadvantages for CRC therapy.
- Gene and immunotherapies represent innovative avenues for CRC management, potentially enhanced by nanodelivery.
Conclusions:
- Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems show considerable clinical potential for improving CRC treatment outcomes.
- Further research is needed to address existing gaps and optimize nanodelivery systems for CRC.
- Future development of nanotechnologies holds promise for more effective and personalized CRC therapies.
