Stealth Nanocarriers in Cancer Therapy: a Comprehensive Review of Design, Functionality, and Clinical Applications

• Published in: AAPS PharmSciTech 2024-06, Vol.25 (6), p.140, Article 140
• Main Authors: Saadh, Mohamed J., Mustafa, Mohammed Ahmed, Kumar, Ashwani, Alamir, Hassan Thoulfikar A., Kumar, Abhishek, Khudair, Shaymaa Abdulhameed, Faisal, Ahmed, Alubiady, Mahmood Hasen Shuhata, Jalal, Sarah Salah, Shafik, Shafik Shaker, Ahmad, Irfan, Khry, Faeza A. F., Abosaoda, Munther Kadhim
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Animals; Antineoplastic Agents - administration & dosage; Antineoplastic Agents - chemistry; Antineoplastic Agents - pharmacokinetics; Biochemistry; Biomedical and Life Sciences; Biomedicine; Biotechnology; Drug Carriers - chemistry; Drug Delivery Systems - methods; Humans; Liposomes; Micelles; Nanomedicine - methods; Nanoparticles - chemistry; Neoplasms - drug therapy; Pharmacology/Toxicology; Pharmacy; Review Article; Tissue Distribution
• ISSN: 1530-9932; 1530-9932
• DOI: 10.1208/s12249-024-02843-5

Nanotechnology has significantly transformed cancer treatment by introducing innovative methods for delivering drugs effectively. This literature review provided an in-depth analysis of the role of nanocarriers in cancer therapy, with a particular focus on the critical concept of the ‘stealth effect.’ The stealth effect refers to the ability of nanocarriers to evade the immune system and overcome physiological barriers. The review investigated the design and composition of various nanocarriers, such as liposomes, micelles, and inorganic nanoparticles, highlighting the importance of surface modifications and functionalization. The complex interaction between the immune system, opsonization, phagocytosis, and the protein corona was examined to understand the stealth effect. The review carefully evaluated strategies to enhance the stealth effect, including surface coating with polymers, biomimetic camouflage, and targeting ligands. The in vivo behavior of stealth nanocarriers and their impact on pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and toxicity were also systematically examined. Additionally, the review presented clinical applications, case studies of approved nanocarrier-based cancer therapies, and emerging formulations in clinical trials. Future directions and obstacles in the field, such as advancements in nanocarrier engineering, personalized nanomedicine, regulatory considerations, and ethical implications, were discussed in detail. The review concluded by summarizing key findings and emphasizing the transformative potential of stealth nanocarriers in revolutionizing cancer therapy. This review enhanced the comprehension of nanocarrier-based cancer therapies and their potential impact by providing insights into advanced studies, clinical applications, and regulatory considerations.