Therapeutic Nanocarriers in Cancer Treatment: Challenges and Future Perspective

Book excerpt: Nanotechnology has revolutionized cancer diagnosis and therapy through targeted drug delivery. Advances in protein engineering and materials science have led to the development of nanocarriers (NCs), which have helped overcome the challenges faced during conventional cancer treatment. These nanocarriers serve as an efficient transport module for drugs. Nano-drug delivery has emerged as a promising technology that results in early detection and better treatment of various cancers. The approved nanoparticles currently used in cancer treatment strategies include liposomes, dendrimers, polyplexes, solid lipid nano-carriers, etc. These nanocarriers can potentially provide a quick, safe, and cost-effective method in cancer therapy and management. This book presents thirteen chapters that cover cancer nanotherapeutics for various cancers. The reference covers lung, breast, cervical, ovarian, colon, prostate, and head and neck cancers. Each chapter reviews advanced data from existing and ongoing clinical research and major regulatory considerations. A list of scientific references for further reading supplements every chapter. Readers will be able to understand recent advances and challenges faced by researchers in cancer nanomedicine. This reference book will greatly benefit undergraduate and postgraduate students, oncologists, pharmacists, and researchers involved in nanomedicine and nano-drug delivery.