Inhalable Nanomaterial Discoveries for Lung Cancer Therapy: A Review

Iqra Safdar1, Syed Mahmood1,2,3,4, Muhammad Kumayl Abdulwahab5

  • 1Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.

Pharmaceutics
|August 28, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Inhalable nanomaterials offer a promising approach for lung cancer treatment, enabling targeted delivery with fewer side effects. This review explores their research, clinical translation, and challenges for effective lung cancer therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Nanotechnology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally.
  • Conventional chemotherapy for lung cancer faces challenges like limited efficacy and systemic side effects.
  • Pulmonary drug delivery using nanomaterials presents a targeted and efficient treatment strategy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current research and clinical applications of inhalable nanomaterials for lung cancer treatment.
  • To highlight advances in pulmonary drug delivery devices and nanomaterial formulations.
  • To identify challenges and propose strategies for the clinical translation of these therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of basic research and clinical studies on inhalable nanomaterials for lung cancer.
  • Analysis of pulmonary drug delivery systems, including devices and nanomaterial types.
  • Discussion of challenges and potential solutions for clinical implementation.

Main Results:

  • Inhalable nanomaterials demonstrate potential for targeted lung cancer therapy with reduced systemic toxicity.
  • Advancements in pulmonary devices and nanomaterial design enhance drug delivery efficiency.
  • Significant hurdles remain in translating these promising findings into widespread clinical practice.

Conclusions:

  • Inhalable nanomaterials represent a significant advancement in targeted lung cancer treatment.
  • Overcoming challenges in formulation, delivery, and regulatory processes is crucial for clinical success.
  • Further research and development are needed to fully realize the potential of pulmonary nanomedicine for lung cancer.