Metal-based nanomedicines for cancer theranostics.

Area of Science:

• Nanomedicine
• Biotechnology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Cancer cell heterogeneity and invasiveness present significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
• Metal-based nanomedicines show promise due to unique properties enabling biological interactions and complex responses.
• Existing research highlights their use in improving cancer imaging and various treatment modalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a systematic and comprehensive overview of metal-based nanomaterials in cancer theranostics.
• To summarize their action mechanisms, synthesis, modification, and biosafety.
• To discuss the latest advancements and future perspectives in clinical applications.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of literature on metal-based nanomedicines for cancer.
• Analysis of synthesis and modification strategies for nanomedicines.
• Evaluation of applications in cancer imaging and therapy (e.g., PTT, PDT, immunotherapy).

Main Results:

• Metal-based nanomedicines enhance cancer imaging contrast and sensitivity, distinguishing cancerous from healthy tissues.
• They are effective against various cancers via drug delivery, radiotherapy, PTT, PDT, SDT, biocatalysis, IIT, and immunotherapy.
• Synthesis, modification, and biosafety aspects are analyzed, alongside current applications.

Conclusions:

• Metal-based nanomedicines represent a significant advancement in cancer theranostics.
• Further research and development are needed to address technical challenges for broader clinical translation.
• This review offers a valuable resource for understanding their potential in oncology.