Innovative Theranostics Strategies in the Fight Against Lung Cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide.
• Current diagnostic and therapeutic strategies have limitations in efficacy and specificity.
• Nanotechnology presents novel opportunities to overcome these challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the application of nanotechnology in enhancing lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.
• To examine nanoparticle-based strategies targeting overexpressed biomarkers in lung tumors.
• To explore the potential of nanocarriers and theranostic approaches in lung cancer management.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on nanotechnology applications in lung cancer.
• Analysis of passive and active (receptor-based) targeting strategies using nanoparticles.
• Examination of stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems and various nanocarrier types.

Main Results:

• Nanoparticles can be engineered for targeted drug delivery to lung tumors via passive and active mechanisms (e.g., EGFR, folic acid, CD44 targeting).
• Stimuli-responsive systems (pH, temperature, ligand-attached) enhance drug release precision.
• Nanotechnology enables theranostic applications, combining diagnosis and therapy, with diverse nanocarrier platforms showing promise.

Conclusions:

• Nanotechnology holds significant potential to revolutionize lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.
• Targeted nanoparticle delivery, stimuli-responsive systems, and theranostics are key areas for improved patient outcomes.
• Integration with emerging diagnostic tools like AI and biosensors will further advance lung cancer care.