Multi-functional nanocarriers to overcome tumor drug resistance.
The development of resistance to variety of chemotherapeutic agents is one of the major challenges in effective cancer treatment. Tumor cells are able to generate a multi-drug resistance (MDR) phenotype due to microenvironmental selection pressures. This review addresses the use of nanotechnology-based delivery systems to overcome MDR in solid tumors. Our own work along with evidence from the literature illustrates the development of various types of engineered nanocarriers specifically designed to enhance tumor-targeted delivery through passive and active targeting strategies. Additionally, multi-functional nanocarriers are developed to enhance drug delivery and overcome MDR by either simultaneous or sequential delivery of resistance modulators (e.g., with P-glycoprotein substrates), agents that regulate intracellular pH, agents that lower the apoptotic threshold (e.g., with ceramide), or in combination with energy delivery (e.g., sound, heat, and light) to enhance the effectiveness of anticancer agents in refractory tumors. In preclinical studies, the use of multi-functional nanocarriers has shown significant promise in enhancing cancer therapy, especially against MDR tumors.
Jabr-Milane
Lara S
LS
Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Northeastern University, 110 Mugar Life Sciences Building, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
van Vlerken
Lilian E
LE
Yadav
Sunita
S
Amiji
Mansoor M
MM
D000818:Animals; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D004337:Drug Carriers / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems / Q000379:methods*; D018432:Drug Resistance, Multiple; D019008:Drug Resistance, Neoplasm; D005544:Forecasting; D049990:Membrane Transport Modulators / Q000494:pharmacology; D050997:Nanomedicine / Q000639:trends; D053758:Nanoparticles / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D004337:Drug Carriers; D049990:Membrane Transport Modulators