Nanoparticle applications: a comparative study of combining nanoparticles with cold atmospheric plasma versus electroporation techniques

Abstract The field of cancer treatment is undergoing a paradigm shift with the emergence of nanotechnology, particularly the use of nanoparticles (NPs) and their potential synergy with cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) and electroporation. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current progress, challenges, and future prospects in utilizing NPs, CAP, and electroporation for cancer therapy. The investigated studies highlight the advantages of NPs, such as their small size, large surface area, and controlled drug release properties, making them efficient in delivering therapeutic agents to specific targets. Additionally, they explore the potential of metallic NPs, such as gold, silver, titanium, and palladium, in targeted drug-delivery systems, showcasing their ability to enhance cancer treatment through properties like tunable optical properties and increased drug circulation time. The combination of NPs with CAP and electroporation is shown to amplify cytotoxicity and therapeutic efficacy, leading to increased cancer cell death and improved treatment outcomes. Furthermore, the studies address the molecular mechanisms and outcomes of these combination therapies, emphasizing the potential for enhanced targeted drug delivery and improved therapeutic outcomes in cancer therapy. This review aims to contribute towards the development of future therapeutic strategies and optimized cancer treatment modalities.