Metal-based nanoparticle in cancer treatment: lessons learned and challenges

Area of Science:

• Nanomedicine
• Materials Science
• Oncology

Background:

• Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies beyond traditional treatments.
• Metal nanoparticles (NPs) are emerging as potent agents with unique properties for targeted cancer therapy.
• The inherent or acquired anticancer capabilities of metal surfaces make them attractive for drug development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the therapeutic applications of distinct metal nanoparticle classes for tumor targeting in cancer treatment.
• To investigate the potential of gold, silver, and iron oxide nanoparticles, among others, for cancer therapy.
• To summarize the risk factors associated with metal NP therapeutic applications for successful clinical translation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of metal nanoparticle applications in cancer research.
• Analysis of unique properties of various metal NPs (e.g., gold, silver, iron oxide).
• Comprehensive summary of risk factors and challenges in clinical translation of metal NP-based therapies.

Main Results:

• Metal nanoparticles exhibit significant potential for targeted cancer treatment.
• Specific metal NPs demonstrate inherent or acquired anticancer properties.
• Identification of key risk factors is crucial for the clinical success of metal NP therapies.

Conclusions:

• Metal nanoparticles represent a promising frontier in developing targeted and effective cancer treatments.
• Further research into the therapeutic potential and safety of metal NPs is warranted.
• Addressing risks is essential for translating metal NP-based therapies into clinical practice for cancer patients.