Advancing cancer theranostics through biomimetics: A comprehensive review

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Oncology

Background:

• Nanotheranostics combining diagnostics and therapeutics are crucial in oncology.
• Biomimetic approaches, inspired by nature, show significant potential in advancing cancer theranostics.
• Current treatments face challenges like multidrug resistance (MDR).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in biomimetics-based cancer theranostics.
• To highlight the role of biomimetics in overcoming treatment challenges, focusing on breast, prostate, and skin cancers.
• To explore applications in drug delivery, immunotherapy, and photothermal therapy.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of biomimetic drug delivery systems designed to bypass MDR mechanisms.
• Review of biomimetic platforms for immune modulation and photothermal tumor ablation.
• Examination of pretargeting techniques for enhanced radiotherapeutic uptake and clinical trials.

Main Results:

• Biomimetic strategies effectively address MDR and enhance immunotherapy and photothermal therapy.
• Development of advanced imaging probes, contrast agents, and biosensors for improved cancer detection.
• Design of nanoparticles, liposomes, and hydrogels for targeted drug delivery and increased therapeutic efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Biomimetics offers a multidisciplinary approach to revolutionize cancer diagnosis and treatment.
• These bioinspired strategies hold promise for improving patient outcomes in oncology.
• The review provides valuable insights for researchers and clinicians in nanotheranostics.