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Package delivered: folate receptor-mediated transporters in cancer therapy and diagnosis

Mohsen Ahmadi1, Christoph A Ritter2, Thomas von Woedtke1,3

  • 1Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Center for Innovation Competence (ZIK) Plasmatis Felix Hausdorff-Str. 2 17489 Greifswald Germany mohsen.ahmadi@inp-greifswald.de kristian.wende@inp-greifswald.de.

Chemical Science
|February 9, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Targeted cancer therapy uses folic acid-conjugated drug transporters to precisely deliver treatments to malignant cells. This approach enhances efficacy, reduces side effects, and overcomes drug resistance in conditions like brain and breast cancer.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Nanotechnology
  • Drug Delivery

Background:

  • Neoplasias present a significant challenge to aging populations, necessitating advanced cancer treatment strategies beyond traditional chemotherapy.
  • Targeted drug delivery aims to improve therapeutic efficacy and minimize adverse effects by directing treatments to cancer cells.
  • The folate receptor (FR) is a cell membrane receptor often overexpressed on malignant cells, making it a promising target for cancer therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and discuss recent advancements (2017-2023) in folic acid-conjugated drug delivery systems for cancer therapy and diagnosis.
  • To explore the chemistry and biochemical pathways involved in FR-targeted nanocarriers and small molecule-drug conjugates.
  • To bridge chemical and biomedical perspectives for future research in FR-targeted precision cancer remediation.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on studies published between 2017 and 2023.
  • Analysis of chemical and biological aspects of folic acid-conjugated nanocarriers and small molecule-drug conjugates.
  • Exemplary focus on brain and breast cancer applications.

Main Results:

  • Folic acid-conjugated drug transporters, including nanocarriers and small molecule-drug conjugates, offer targeted delivery and controlled release of therapeutics.
  • These systems demonstrate potential for reduced dosages, circumvention of drug resistance, and diminished systemic toxicity.
  • Recent developments highlight the structure-based design of these drug transporters for precision cancer treatment and diagnosis.

Conclusions:

  • Folic acid-targeted drug delivery represents a promising strategy for enhancing cancer therapy efficacy and patient outcomes.
  • The integration of advanced chemistry and biology in designing these systems is crucial for overcoming current treatment limitations.
  • Continued research in FR-targeted therapeutics and diagnostics holds significant potential for personalized cancer remediation.

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