Recent Advances of Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-Based Nanoparticles for Tumor-Targeted Drug Delivery

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is an FDA-approved polymer for its biocompatibility and biodegradability. PLGA-based nanoparticles (NPs) are well recognized as promising candidates for drug delivery. However, the lack of selectivity to cancer cells limits the clinical application of PLGA-based NPs. In recent years, a number of studies were focused on tackling this limitation and showed great potential in improving the anticancer efficacy. Herein, we summarize passive tumor-targeting strategies through the EPR effect and active tumor-targeting strategies through ligand modifications based on PLGA NPs for tumor-targeted drug delivery. Finally, new challenges and possible opportunities for further research are also discussed.

Automated summary

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is an FDA-approved polymer known for its biocompatibility and biodegradability. PLGA-based nanoparticles (NPs) have shown potential as drug delivery systems, but their lack of selectivity to cancer cells limits their clinical application. This review summarizes passive and active tumor-targeting strategies using PLGA NPs for drug delivery, and discusses new challenges and opportunities for further research.