Applying multimodal dendrimers for prostate cancer theranostics

Dendrimers represent a unique category of polymeric macromolecules characterized by a well-defined architecture that begins with a central core, expands through regularly repeating branching units, and terminates in a dense array of surface functional groups. Unlike conventional linear or random polymers, dendrimers exhibit nanoscale dimensions, highly symmetric shapes, and narrow polydispersity, which can be reliably reproduced in large-scale synthesis. These structural attributes have attracted growing attention to their use as versatile nanomaterials for development of theranostic agents that integrate diagnostics and therapy into a single platform for personalized cancer management. In this context, dendrimers offer significant opportunities. This review highlights recent strategies employing dendrimers for targeted prostate cancer imaging and treatment. The review also discusses limitations and critical challenges that must be addressed to advance dendrimer-based theranostic agents into clinical application.