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Unlocking the potential: Receptor-mediated targeted drug delivery in cancer therapy
Balaji Palanisamy1, Abul Kalam Azad Mandal1
1Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract:
Receptor-mediated targeted drug delivery has emerged as a pivotal strategy in cancer therapy, offering precision and specificity in combating malignant diseases while minimizing systemic toxicity. This review explores the multifaceted role of receptors in cancer biology, emphasizing their contributions to cancer progression, metastasis, and their potential as therapeutic targets. Ligand-based targeting approaches highlight the utility of small molecules, peptides, and antibodies, as well as the development of novel targeting ligands. A critical focus is placed on engineering receptor-targeted nanoparticles and advanced drug delivery systems. Innovations in dual-targeting strategies and the targeted delivery to the tumour microenvironment (TME) and metastatic niches are discussed, underscoring their potential to enhance therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, receptor-targeted imaging is reviewed for its dual role in diagnosis and real-time treatment monitoring. To address the challenges of side effects and off-target toxicity, strategies that minimize these risks while targeting overexpressed receptors in solid tumours are explored. Finally, the review outlines future directions in receptor-targeted cancer therapy, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary research to refine these strategies further. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a roadmap for advancing receptor-based therapeutic approaches, ultimately improving outcomes for cancer patients.
Insights
Receptor-targeted drug delivery offers precise cancer treatment by targeting specific receptors, minimizing side effects. This approach enhances therapy efficacy and aids in diagnosis and monitoring for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Receptor-mediated targeted drug delivery is a key strategy in cancer therapy.
- Receptors play crucial roles in cancer progression, metastasis, and serve as therapeutic targets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of receptors in cancer biology and their therapeutic potential.
- To explore advancements in receptor-targeted drug delivery systems and strategies.
- To discuss challenges and future directions in receptor-targeted cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of receptor-mediated targeted drug delivery in cancer therapy.
- Analysis of ligand-based targeting approaches (small molecules, peptides, antibodies).
- Examination of engineered nanoparticles, dual-targeting strategies, and TME delivery.
Main Results:
- Receptor targeting enhances specificity and reduces systemic toxicity in cancer treatment.
- Novel ligands and engineered nanoparticles improve drug delivery efficiency.
- Targeting the tumor microenvironment and metastatic niches shows promise for increased efficacy.
- Receptor-targeted imaging aids in diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
Conclusions:
- Receptor-targeted strategies represent a significant advancement in cancer therapy.
- Further research and interdisciplinary collaboration are needed to optimize these approaches.
- This review provides a roadmap for developing more effective receptor-based cancer treatments.
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