A critical review of lipid-based nanoparticles for taxane delivery

Nano-based delivery systems have attracted a great deal of attention in the past two decades as a strategy to overcome the low therapeutic index of conventional anticancer drugs and delivery barriers in solid tumors. Myriads of preclinical studies have been focused on developing nano-based formulations to effectively deliver taxanes, one of the most important and most prescribed anticancer drug types in the clinic. Given the hydrophobic property of taxanes, lipid-based NPs, serve as a viable alternative delivery system. This critical review will provide an overview and perspective of the advancement of lipid-based nanoparticles for taxane delivery. Currently available formulations of taxanes and their drawbacks as well as criteria for idea taxane delivery system will be discussed.

► Currently available taxane formulations have several drawbacks.
► Nano-based systems and unique physiology of solid tumors are the basis for new therapeutic strategies.
► Various preclinical models have been used to study nano-based systems.
► Predictive preclinical models for human cancer therapy are needed.
► Lipid-based nanoparticles have several advantages as a nano-based delivery system.