Unravelling the Anticancer Potential of Schiff Base Functionalized Nanoparticles: Recent Developments and Future Challenges

Schiff bases, formed through the condensation of carbonyl compounds with primary amines, serve as valuable precursors for the development of anticancer nanomaterials. Their incorporation into metal-based nanoparticles, polymeric systems, and liposomal carriers has expanded the possibilities for targeted and effective cancer therapy. Current evidence indicates that Schiff base nanoparticles offer notable benefits over conventional therapies, particularly in improving drug efficacy and reducing systemic toxicity. This review outlines the synthesis of Schiff bases along with the methods used to develop their nanoparticles. The discussion also covers commonly used preparation methods, approaches for physicochemical characterization, and the major biological pathways through which these nanoparticles influence cancer cell survival. Despite the progress made, a number of issues still require attention, including the need for more precise nanoparticle designs, better understanding of long-term interactions in biological environments, and clearer links between laboratory findings and clinical translation. This review summarises the current progress and highlights the potential and the limitations of Schiff base functionalized nanoparticles as future anticancer agents.