From Nanoparticles to Cancer Nanomedicine: Old Problems with New Solutions

Anticancer nanomedicines have been studied over 30 years, but fewer than 10 formulations have been approved for clinical therapy today. Despite abundant options of anticancer drugs, it remains challenging to have agents specifically target cancer cells while reducing collateral toxicity to healthy tissue. Nanocompartments that can be selective toward points deeply within malignant tissues are a promising concept, but the heterogeneity of tumor tissue, inefficiency of cargo loading and releasing, and low uniformity of manufacture required from preclinical to commercialization are major obstacles. Technological advances have been made in this field, creating engineered nanomaterials with improved uniformity, flexibility of cargo loading, diversity of surface modification, and less inducible immune responses. This review highlights the developmental process of approved nanomedicines and the opportunities for novel materials that combine insights of tumors and nanotechnology to develop a more effective nanomedicine for cancer patients.

Automated summary

Research on anticancer nanomedicines has a history of over 30 years, but only a few formulations have been approved for clinical therapy. Developing nanocompartments that can selectively target points deep within malignant tissues is a promising concept, but challenges such as tumor tissue heterogeneity and low manufacturing uniformity pose obstacles to the creation of effective nanomedicines. Technological advances have improved the uniformity and efficiency of engineered nanomaterials, offering opportunities for developing more effective nanomedicines for cancer patients by combining insights of tumors and nanotechnology.