Site-specific targeting in immunoliposomal nanomedicine for oncology: opportunities and limitations

The integration of monoclonal antibodies with liposomal nanocarriers has opened new possibilities in targeted cancer therapy. Immunoliposomes, which are liposomes surface-conjugated with antibodies or antibody fragments, offer dual specificity by combining passive targeting (via the enhanced permeability and retention effect) with active targeting of tumor-specific antigens. This design allows for increased drug accumulation in tumor tissue and reduced off-target toxicity, which are critical challenges in conventional chemotherapy. Although no immunoliposomal therapy has yet received the FDA or EMA approval, the platform continues to evolve. Several formulations are under clinical investigation for various solid tumors, including triple-negative breast cancer, glioblastoma, and non-small cell lung cancer. For example, in a phase II study of anti-EGFR immunoliposomes loaded with doxorubicin in advanced triple-negative breast cancer (NCT02833766), the median progression-free survival was 3.5 months, with 73% of patients experiencing disease progression within the first year. Immunoliposomes hold promise as future therapeutic agents, especially when integrated with molecular diagnostics and patient-specific targeting strategies. However, their clinical translation requires overcoming biological and technological barriers to ensure reproducible efficacy and safety. This review critically examines current progress and explores future perspectives for this emerging therapeutic strategy in precision oncology.