CD44 targeted functionalized nanocarriers for non-small cell lung cancer

Na Zhu1, Ruijuan Guo1, Yanyan Jiang2

  • 1Medical Oncology Department, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai, Shandong, China.

Frontiers in Oncology
|December 10, 2025
PubMed

Insights

CD44-targeted nanocarriers show promise for treating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This approach leverages CD44 overexpression in NSCLC for precise drug delivery, offering potential for improved therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Nanotechnology
  • Biomaterials

Background:

  • Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) presents a global health challenge necessitating innovative treatments.
  • CD44, a cell surface glycoprotein, is significantly overexpressed in NSCLC, identifying it as a key therapeutic target.
  • Understanding NSCLC molecular characteristics is crucial for developing targeted drug delivery systems.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the potential of CD44-targeted functionalized nanocarriers for NSCLC treatment.
  • To explore CD44 as a biomarker and its role in targeted drug delivery strategies.
  • To guide researchers and clinicians in utilizing nanocarrier-based therapies for NSCLC.

Main Methods:

  • Review of preclinical and clinical studies on CD44-targeted nanocarriers in NSCLC.
  • Analysis of nanocarrier properties (size, morphology, charge) influencing CD44 receptor interaction.
  • Assessment of safety considerations, including immunogenicity and off-target effects.

Main Results:

  • CD44-targeted nanocarriers demonstrate potential for effective NSCLC treatment.
  • Nanocarrier characteristics significantly impact their interaction with CD44 receptors.
  • Preclinical and clinical data support the efficacy of this targeted approach.

Conclusions:

  • CD44-targeted nanocarriers offer a promising strategy for precise and efficient NSCLC therapy.
  • Careful consideration of nanocarrier design and potential safety issues is essential.
  • This targeted approach holds potential for advancing NSCLC treatment paradigms.