Nanotechnology and Drug Delivery: An Update in Oncology

Abstract

The field of nanotechnology has exploded in recent years with diverse arrays of applications. Cancer therapeutics have recently seen benefit from nanotechnology with the approval of some early nanoscale drug delivery systems. A diversity of novel delivery systems are currently under investigation and an array of newly developed, customized particles have reached clinical application. Drug delivery systems have traditionally relied on passive targeting via increased vascular permeability of malignant tissue, known as the enhanced permeability and retention effect (EPR). More recently, there has been an increased use of active targeting by incorporating cell specific ligands such as monoclonal antibodies, lectins, and growth factor receptors. This customizable approach has raised the possibility of drug delivery systems capable of multiple, simultaneous functions, including applications in diagnostics, imaging, and therapy which is paving the way to improved early detection methods, more effective therapy, and better survivorship for cancer patients.

Engineering of relevant photodynamic processes through structural modifications of metallotetrapyrrolic photosensitizers

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Nanomaterials: Tools, Technology, and Methodology of Nanotechnology-Based Biomedical Systems for Diagnostics and Therapy

“…Most notably, the success of any implantable device depends on an active management of cellular adhesion, motility and proliferation on its surface. One example is the search for a biocompatible artificial cornea [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20].…”

pH-responsive gelatin polymer-coated silica-based mesoporous composites for the sustained-release of indomethacin

“…Nanotechnology in hygiene and medicine, namely nanomedicine, is one of the most promising and fascinating areas of research today [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ]. Nanoparticles are revolutionizing the medical field for disease treatment, physiology monitoring, and health protection.…”