Engineering calcium-based nanoparticles for cancer treatment

Calcium-based nanoparticles have emerged as promising candidates in cancer therapy due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and versatile physicochemical properties. These nanomaterials, including calcium phosphate, hydroxyapatite, calcium carbonate, calcium alginate, and other calcium-derived compounds, offer significant advantages in drug deliver, gene therapy, and cancer immunotherapy. Their ability to modulate the tumour microenvironment, enhance targeted drug delivery, and induce cellular apoptosis through calcium overload makes them effective therapeutic agents for cancer treatment. Wet and dry-based methods have been investigated as synthesis methods for precise control of particle size, morphology, and surface functionalization, optimizing their performance in biomedical applications. Additionally, surface modifications with targeting ligands, such as antibodies, peptides, vitamins, and aptamers, improve their specificity towards cancer cells, reducing off-target effects. The multifunctionality and safety of calcium-based nanoparticles make them valuable tools in oncology, with applications extending from diagnostics to therapy. This review highlights recent advancements in the synthesis, cellular interactions, therapeutic applications, and clinical prospects of calcium-based nanoparticles for cancer treatment.