Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2025

Polymalic Acid-based Nano Biopolymers for Targeting of Multiple Tumor Markers: An Opportunity for Personalized Medicine?
Published on: June 13, 2014
Recent Advances in Targeted Nanocomposite-based Therapeutics for Cancer Therapy
Rashmi Pathak1, Praveen Halagali2, Vamshi Krishna Tippavajhala2
1Department of Pharmacy, Invertis University, Bareilly UP, 243123, India.
Abstract:
Cancer therapies have advanced significantly, yet traditional treatments still confront obstacles, such as systemic toxicity and drug resistance. Nanotechnology plays a pivotal role in addressing these issues, particularly through the development of polymer nanocomposites (PNCs). PNCs are hybrid materials composed of a polymer matrix embedded with nanoscale fillers. These composites can be classified based on the type of matrix (ceramic, metal, or polymer) and their structural properties (exfoliated or intercalated forms). Synthesis methods, such as solvent casting and in situ polymerization, ensure the uniform dispersion of nanoparticles within the polymer matrix. PNC-based drug delivery systems are categorized into two types: passive targeting, which leverages the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, and active targeting, which relies on ligand-receptor interactions. In the pharmaceutical industry, recent developments in nanocomposite-based systems have demonstrated great promise, especially in terms of improving medication solubility, stability, and bioavailability while reducing adverse effects. These methods use nanoparticles embedded in a matrix to increase drug delivery, addressing issues, such as poor solubility and limited bioavailability associated with conventional therapies. Before these novel medicines are widely used, clinical studies are essential for assessing their safety and effectiveness and making sure they adhere to legal requirements. Furthermore, the growth of patents pertaining to nanocomposites indicates continued study and advancement in this field, emphasizing nanocomposites' potential uses in a range of medical conditions. Nanocomposites are anticipated to transform drug delivery methods and make a substantial contribution to current medicine as research advances.
Related Concept Videos
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
Cancer Therapies
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...
Tumor Immunotherapy
Cancer Vaccines
Cancer vaccines come in two categories: preventive (prophylactic) and treatment (active). Preventive vaccines, such as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, protect against viruses that cause certain...

