Introduction: The design of new nanocarriers as a strategy for the delivery of anti-cancer drugs offers a potential platform to overcome some limitations of current clinical treatments and to achieve targeted release into tumour tissues. Cyclodextrin-based nanosponges are a novel nanosized delivery system composed of hyper-cross-linked cyclodextrins connected in a three-dimensional network. They form porous nanoparticles with sizes lower than 500 nm, spherical shape and negative surface charge. They show a good capacity for incorporating small molecules, macromolecules, ions and gases within their structure.
Area covered: This review will describe some applications of cyclodextrin-based nanosponges as carriers for anticancer drugs. Recent smart nanosponges, able to be responsive to an external stimulus, will be also discussed. In vitro and in vivo experimental results, obtained with currently used molecules, such as paclitaxel, doxorubicin, 5-fluorourcil and tamoxifen, will be shown.
Expert opinion: Cyclodextrin-based nanosponges can be considered a challenging technology for the development of innovative formulations, suitable for various administration routes for anti-cancer drugs.
Keywords: anticancer drugs; cyclodextrins; nanosponges; prolonged release.