Nanomaterials in cancer starvation therapy: pioneering advances, therapeutic potential, and clinical challenges

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Starvation therapy, involving nutrient deprivation for cancer cells via blood occlusion and metabolic interventions, is an emerging cancer treatment strategy.
• Current limitations include poor drug delivery, cellular hypoxia, adverse effects, and insufficient efficacy as monotherapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in nanomaterial-mediated multi-therapeutic strategies based on starvation therapy.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of various starvation therapy approaches and their limitations for clinical translation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on nanomaterials designed for starvation therapy.
• Analysis of therapeutic strategies and their associated challenges.
• Synthesis of information on multi-therapeutic modalities.

Main Results:

• Multifunctional nanomaterials show potential to overcome existing challenges in starvation therapy.
• Nanomaterial-based approaches offer enhanced targeting, reduced hypoxia, and improved therapeutic outcomes.
• Diverse therapeutic strategies are being explored to broaden the application of starvation therapy.

Conclusions:

• Nanomaterial-driven starvation therapy presents a promising avenue for overcoming monotherapy limitations.
• Addressing challenges in delivery, hypoxia, and side effects is crucial for clinical success.
• This comprehensive review highlights the potential of integrated nanomaterial and starvation-based strategies for future cancer treatment.