Nano-and Micromotors Designed for Cancer Therapy

Molecules. 2019 Sep 19;24(18):3410. doi: 10.3390/molecules24183410.

Abstract

Research on nano- and micromotors has evolved into a frequently cited research area with innovative technology envisioned for one of current humanities' most deadly problems: cancer. The development of cancer targeting drug delivery strategies involving nano-and micromotors has been a vibrant field of study over the past few years. This review aims at categorizing recent significant results, classifying them according to the employed propulsion mechanisms starting from chemically driven micromotors, to field driven and biohybrid approaches. In concluding remarks of section 2, we give an insight into shape changing micromotors that are envisioned to have a significant contribution. Finally, we critically discuss which important aspects still have to be addressed and which challenges still lie ahead of us.

Keywords: cancer; challenges; drug delivery; loading and release; nano- and micromotors.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Microtechnology*
  • Nanotechnology*
  • Neoplasms / therapy*