Role of emerging theranostic technologies in precision oncology: revolutionizing cancer diagnosis and treatment

Abstract Theranostics is a technique used in precision oncology to combine focused treatments with diagnostic imaging, thereby enabling tailored cancer treatment. Using modern imaging techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), Theranostics guarantees accurate tumor diagnosis and tailored treatment planning. Radiopharmaceuticals, such as Lutetium-177 (Lu-177) and prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted therapies, have demonstrated significant clinical enhancements in progression-free and overall survival rates relative to traditional treatments, especially in prostate cancer and neuroendocrine tumors. Emerging technologies such as nanotheranostics and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven tools are enhancing the precision and efficacy of these treatments. However, the widespread application of theranostics is impeded by tumor heterogeneity, elevated prices, and restricted accessibility. Increased research and funding are necessary to address these issues and fully actualize theranostics’ potential to revolutionize cancer detection and therapy. To highlight the above challenges, this review examines diagnostic imaging and therapy advancements, focusing on clinical applications and technologies such as nanotechnology and AI-driven methods.