Next-Generation Anticancer Peptides: Engineering, Nanotheranostics and Clinical Translation

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biotechnology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Anticancer peptides (ACPs) offer targeted cancer cell selectivity and multifunctional therapeutic capabilities, surpassing conventional chemotherapeutics.
• Peptide engineering and nanotechnology advancements are crucial for overcoming biological barriers and enhancing ACP efficacy.
• Current challenges include stability, immunogenicity, manufacturing, and regulatory issues for widespread clinical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in ACP discovery, molecular engineering, and nanotheranostic integration.
• To highlight strategies for improving ACP stability, potency, and targeted delivery.
• To outline a future roadmap for peptide-based precision oncology.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on peptide engineering techniques (e.g., sequence optimization, non-natural amino acids, PEGylation).
• Analysis of nanotechnology platforms (e.g., nanoparticles, stimuli-responsive systems) for ACP delivery.
• Examination of preclinical and clinical progress of ACPs and theranostic integration.

Main Results:

• Peptide engineering has significantly improved ACP stability, potency, and pharmacokinetics.
• Nanotechnology platforms enhance ACP targeting, controlled release, and theranostic capabilities.
• Emerging strategies like enzyme-activated and stimuli-responsive systems offer precise spatiotemporal control.

Conclusions:

• Next-generation ACP platforms integrate targeted cytotoxicity, immune activation, and imaging for advanced cancer therapy.
• Continued research in engineering and nanodelivery systems is vital for realizing the full potential of ACPs in precision oncology.
• Addressing challenges in stability, immunogenicity, and manufacturing is key to clinical translation.