Multifunctional bio-nanostructure for cancer therapy: mini review

The relentless pursuit of innovative cancer therapies has recently focused on the development of multifunctional bio-molecule nanostructures, fabricated with biomolecules and engineered for drug delivery. It improves the accuracy and efficiency of diagnostic procedures, enables theranostic capabilities, and allows integration of advanced treatment strategies with real-time monitoring. Besides size, the diversity of nanomaterials also relies upon the source, method of preparation and types of interactions in host body. The nanomaterials are mainly classified based on their feed or raw materials such as metals, carbon, or biomolecules-based carriers involved in preparations like mono-molecular or composites, dimensionality (0D, 1D, 2D or 3D) and the types of functionalization. Silver (Ag) and gold (Au) are the most common NMs used directly or in combination with other biomolecules for healthcare. The major applications of nanoparticles are in imaging and drug delivery while 3D structures are related to scaffolds and tissue engineering. Even with multi-fold applications, nanomaterials are facing hurdles in commercialization mainly due to the lack of standardized preparation methods with consistent properties, potential harmful effects and allergic responses of nanoparticles, and ethical concerns related to environmental and toxic effects. The accuracy and real time monitoring in clinical trials are also a concern. The integration of deep learning, machine learning, and artificial intelligence emerges as a pivotal player in advancement, and enhancement of nanomedicines or nano-formulations. The availability of regulatory framework is also required to ensure the delivery of best formulation to the patients. The current review provides an extensive exploration of the design, synthesis, and application of bionanostructures, prepared with proteins, peptides, nucleic acids, lipids, and polysaccharides for cancer therapy. It also concludes the ethical concern and environmental impact as major hurdle to overcome. The potential of nanoformulations can be fully exploited with interdisciplinary collaboration.