Radiotheranostics With Nanoparticles: Precision Targeting in Receptor-Overexpressing Tumors

Cancer remains one of the most challenging medical conditions. Nanotechnology is revolutionizing the approach to cancer management as an efficient tool for early diagnosis, therapy and monitoring. Nanoparticles (NPs) have shown promising results in advancing precision medicine by integrating diagnostic imaging and targeted therapy within a single platform, a concept of theranostics. Nanocarriers are synthesized via the use of biocompatible materials that are functionalized with specific ligands that bind to receptors that are overexpressed on the surface of cancer cells. For theranostic purposes, these NPs are loaded with suitable radioisotopes that emit gamma, positron, alpha or beta radiation for imaging and/or therapy. Despite the significant successes, most of the work is still at the preclinical stages awaiting clinical translation. In this review, a comprehensive examination of the current state of receptor-targeted radiotheranostic NPs is presented, with a focus on their design, functionalization, receptor-specific targeting, and clinical translational potential. The role of key tumor markers is highlighted in guiding NP delivery and improving precision and therapy. The exploration of these cutting-edge advancements and associated challenges will provide insights into the revolution of radiotheranostic nanomedicine and its impact on the future of precision oncology.