Metallic and Magnetic Nanoparticle in Oncology
Abstract
The highly interesting physicochemical properties of metallic and magnetic nanoparticles and their multifunctional application have propelled them into the modern oncology arena as promising diagnostic and therapeutic agents. Nanomaterials such as gold, silver, iron oxide, and other metal-based nanoparticles have proven to be very useful in the field of diagnosis, imaging, delivery and therapy of cancer. Their small size, large surface area and ease of surface modification mean that therapeutic agents can be targeted to tumour tissues, limiting the systemic toxicity and enhancing the efficacy of the treatment. Magnetic nanoparticles, specifically superparamagnetic particles of iron oxide (SPIONs), have been highlighted for their magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses, magnetic targeting, and the hyperthermia treatment of cancer. Gold nanoparticles are commonly studied for photothermal therapy, radiosensitization and biosensing purposes. In addition, nanoparticle systems can optimize anticancer drug bioavailability and may provide for slow or sustained release. Moreover, the recent developments in nanotechnology have allowed the development of multifunctional platforms to integrate diagnostic and therapeutic activities into a single nanostructure called theranostic platforms. In spite of all these developments, issues concerning the long-term toxicity, biocompatibility, biodistribution, and clinical approval are relevant considerations for clinical translation. Ongoing research and innovations are necessary to achieve new applications, the best design of nanoparticles, and progress to make them safe in applications for personalized cancer therapy.
Author Affiliations
- 1 Department of Pharmaceutics, Divine College of Pharmacy, Satana, Nashik, MS, India.
- 2 Department of Pharmacology, Divine College of Pharmacy, Satana, Nashik, MS, India.