Nanomaterials as nanocarriers: a critical assessment why these are multi-chore vanquisher in breast cancer treatment

Artif Cells Nanomed Biotechnol. 2018 Aug;46(5):899-916. doi: 10.1080/21691401.2017.1375937. Epub 2017 Sep 15.

Abstract

Breast cancer is a group of diseases with various subtypes and leads to high mortality throughout the globe. Various conventional techniques are in practice to cure breast cancer but these techniques are linked with various shortcomings. Mostly these treatments are not site directed and cause toxicity towards normal cells. In order to overcome these issues, we need smart system that can deliver anticancer drugs to specific sites. Targeted drug delivery can be achieved via passive or active drug delivery using nanocarriers. This mode of drug delivery is more effective against breast cancer and may help in the reduction of mortality rate. Potentially used nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery belong to organic and inorganic molecules. Various FDA approved nano products are in use to cure breast cancer. However, body's defense system is main limitation for potential use of nano systems. However, this can be overcome by surface modification of nanocarriers. In this review, breast cancer and its types, targeted drug delivery and nanocarriers used to cure breast cancer are discussed. By progressing nanotechnology, we will be able to fight against this life threatening issue and serve the humanity, which is the basic aim of scientific knowledge.

Keywords: FDA; Nanocarriers; PEGylation; passive/active drug delivery; targeted drug delivery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / chemistry
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Breast Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Drug Carriers / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Nanostructures / chemistry*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Drug Carriers