AS1411 aptamer in melanoma therapy: Harnessing targeted strategies for precision treatment

Melanoma, the fifth most prevalent cancer type in both men and women, is characterized by substantial incidence and mortality rates. Melanoma treatment varies by stage and may include surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies. The AS1411 aptamer, which targets the overexpressed nucleolin protein in melanoma cells, has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent. It can deliver drugs directly to tumor cells, enhancing treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects. Research highlights the development of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, including gold, magnetic, polymeric nanoparticles, and liposomes, all conjugated with AS1411. These systems improve targeting and drug release, demonstrating significant anti-tumor effects in preclinical studies. Additionally, AS1411-conjugated therapies, including peptide and siRNA constructs, show potential in disrupting tumor vasculature and silencing cancer-related genes. Overall, AS1411-modified nanoparticles represent a transformative approach in skin cancer therapy, warranting further clinical investigation.