Nanomedicine in cancer treatment - an overview

Abstract Cancer remains a formidable global health challenge, with millions of lives lost annually and a projected increase in cases, particularly in regions like South Central Asia, Europe, Eastern Europe, etc, Traditional cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, face limitations in effectively managing the complex tumor microenvironment and addressing the diverse characteristics of cancer cells. Nano-oncology has emerged as a promising frontier in cancer therapy, utilizing nanoscale materials to deliver therapeutic agents with precision and efficacy. The benefits of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems are the ability to target tumor cells while minimizing adverse effects and overcoming multidrug resistance. Advancements in hybrid nanoparticle development have further enhanced the stability and performance of drug delivery systems, offering new avenues for cancer treatment. Moreover, nanoparticle-based therapies hold the potential to modulate the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and improve outcomes in immunotherapy. The review provides a comprehensive overview of nanotherapeutic products currently in various preclinical and clinical study stages, focusing on their success rates in lung and breast cancers compared to conventional chemotherapeutic drugs. By elucidating the landscape of nano-oncology and evaluating its efficacy in specific cancer types, this review aims to shed light on the transformative potential of nanoparticle-based approaches in cancer treatment and diagnosis. They are exploring nano-oncology promises to pave the way for innovative strategies in combating cancer and improving patient outcomes globally.