Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
1424458 Journal of Controlled Release 2012 6 Pages PDF
Abstract

Advances in nanotechnology for oncology will arise from an increased understanding of the interaction between nanomaterials and biological systems; refinement of multifunctional nanocomposites for applications such as simultaneous imaging and therapy (theranostics); and harnessing of the unique physicochemical properties arising from nanoscale effects which distinguish them from small-molecular-weight molecules in the detection and destruction of cancer cells with high selectivity and efficiency. The major challenges in successful clinical translation of tumor specific nanoparticle delivery include overcoming various biological barriers and demonstrating enhanced therapeutic efficacy over the current standard of care in the clinic. For many nanoparticle mediated theranostic applications, image guidance can play a crucial role not only in exploiting the cancer specific imaging capabilities of these novel particles, but in planning, targeting, monitoring and verifying treatment delivery, thus enhancing the safety and efficacy of these emerging procedures.

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Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering Materials Science Biomaterials
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