Mitochondrial-targeted nanoparticles: Delivery and therapeutic agents in cancer

Mitochondria are the powerhouses of cells and modulate the essential metabolic functions required for cellular sur-vival. Various mitochondrial pathways, such as oxidative phosphorylation or production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are dysregulated during cancer growth and develop-ment, rendering them attractive targets against cancer. Thus, the delivery of antitumor agents to mitochondria has emerged as a potential approach for treating cancer. Recent advances in nanotechnology have provided innova-tive solutions for overcoming the physical barriers posed by the structure of mitochondrial organelles, and have enabled the development of efficient mitochondrial nanoplatforms. In this review, we examine the importance of mitochondria during neoplastic development, explore the most recent smart designs of nano-based systems aimed at targeting mitochondria, and highlight key mitochondrial pathways in cancer cells.

Automated summary

Mitochondria, as the powerhouses of cells, play important roles in cellular survival through regulating essential metabolic functions. Dysregulation of mitochondrial pathways, such as oxidative phosphorylation or production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), has been identified in cancer growth and development, making them attractive targets against cancer. Recent advances in nanotechnology have provided innovative solutions for delivering antitumor agents to mitochondria. This review explores the importance of mitochondria in neoplastic development, discusses the latest smart designs of nano-based systems for targeting mitochondria, and highlights key mitochondrial pathways in cancer cells.