Pickering emulsions for cancer: Formulation strategies, functional enhancements, and translational considerations

Pickering emulsions (PEs) is a class of emulsions stabilized by solid particles instead of traditional surfactants. Among various applications, PEs have emerged as a promising drug delivery carrier for multiple diseases, including cancer. Through the encapsulation of drug molecules within the dispersed phase or within the interfacial layer, PEs serve as protective shells for pharmaceutical agents during systemic circulations, ensuring enhanced bioavailability. The formulation of PEs is largely centered around designing the emulsion stabilizer, within which stimuli-responsiveness and targeting functionalities can be installed for precise and controlled cancer delivery. This review delves into the considerations for formulating PEs, encompassing the crucial physicochemical properties used to judge emulsion quality and a practical guide to choosing appropriate Pickering stabilizers for oncological applications. We also highlighted recent advancements in using PEs for cancer diagnostics and treatment, focusing on methods, mechanisms, and hurdles to bringing this technology from bench to bedside.