Self-propelled micro/nanobots: A new insight into precisely targeting cancerous cells through intelligent and deep cancer penetration

Eur J Pharmacol. 2022 Jul 5:926:175011. doi: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175011. Epub 2022 May 11.

Abstract

Cancer overlooks are globally one of the most dangerous and life-threatening tribulations. While significant advances have been made in the targeted delivery of anti-cancer medications over the last few years, several challenges, such as low efficacy and strong toxic effects, remain to be addressed. Micro/nanomotors have been thoroughly studied for both effective cancer detection and treatment, as demonstrated by significant advancements in the architecture of smart and functional micro/nanomotor biomedical systems. Able to self-propelled within fluid media, micro/nanomotors have attractive vehicles to maximize the efficacy of tumor delivery. Here, we present the current developments in the delivery, detection, and imaging-guided treatment of micro/nanomotors in the clinical field, including cancer-related specific targeted drug delivery, and then discuss the barriers and difficulties encountered by micro/nanomotors throughout the medical process. Furthermore, this paper addresses the potential growth of micro/nanomotors for medical applications, and sets out the current drawbacks and future research directions for more advancement.

Keywords: Cancer therapy; Drug delivery; Nanostructures; Neoplasms; Self-propelled micro/nanomotors.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Humans
  • Nanostructures*
  • Nanotechnology
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy