Nanobodies: a new potential for prostate cancer treatment

J Cancer Res Clin Oncol. 2023 Aug;149(9):6703-6710. doi: 10.1007/s00432-022-04515-y. Epub 2023 Jan 21.

Abstract

Background: The current progressive increase in the cancer burden of prostate cancer requires the exploration of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Nanobodies are single-domain antibodies with the advantages of small size, high stability, easy processing and modification, which are increasingly used in the treatment of many types of cancer.

Methods: This review analyzed the relevant literature in PubMed and other databases.

Result: In the retrieved literature, nanobodies are widely used in the treatment of prostate cancer. The preparation of nanobodies targeting PSA or PSMA is straightforward. For diagnostic purposes, nanobodies can be used in the preparation of biosensors for more sensitive identification of prostate cancer; for therapeutic purposes, nanobodies are used in the preparation of immunotoxic and ADC drugs. Preclinical in vivo and in vitro experiments have shown that this therapeutic approach is feasible. This article is a review of the above to provide new ideas for the treatment of prostate cancer.

Conclusion: Compared with traditional antibodies, nano-antibodies have the advantages of small size, high stability, and high penetration. These advantages make nano-antibodies worthy to be widely used. Current studies have shown that nanobodies have advantages and future in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer.

Keywords: Nanobodies; Prostate cancer; Research progress; Single-domain antibodies; VHH.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prostatic Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Prostatic Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Single-Domain Antibodies* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Single-Domain Antibodies