Hydrogel-Based Delivery of Ion Channel Modulators for Cancer Therapy: Current Advances and Future Perspectives

Gizem Ozkurnaz Civir1, Ilknur Atli2, Ozgur Ozay3

  • 1Department of Plant and Animal Production, Lapseki Vocation School, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, 17800 Çanakkale, Türkiye.

Insights

Novel cancer treatments leverage ion channel modulators delivered via hydrogels to improve drug efficacy. This review explores their antitumor potential, delivery advantages, and clinical limitations for innovative therapeutic strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Cancer is a leading global health challenge with treatment limitations.
  • Ion channels regulate critical cellular processes, including proliferation and cell death.
  • Targeting ion channels shows promise for novel cancer therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the antitumor effects of ion channel modulators.
  • To evaluate hydrogel-based drug delivery systems for these modulators.
  • To discuss the clinical potential and limitations of this approach.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of ion channel modulators in cancer treatment.
  • Analysis of hydrogel properties for drug delivery.
  • Evaluation of pharmacokinetic and biocompatibility data.

Main Results:

  • Ion channel modulators demonstrate significant potential in suppressing tumor growth.
  • Hydrogels offer advantages like controlled release and targeted delivery.
  • Biocompatibility and stability are key considerations for clinical translation.

Conclusions:

  • Hydrogel-based delivery enhances the efficacy of ion channel modulators for cancer treatment.
  • Further research is needed to overcome clinical limitations and optimize therapeutic strategies.
  • This approach presents innovative perspectives for addressing unmet needs in cancer therapy.

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