NANOMEDICINE IN DRUG DELIVERY: TARGETING CANCER CELLS WITH PRECISION

Abstract

Nanomedicine represents a groundbreaking approach in drug delivery, offering new avenues for targeting and treating cancer cells with remarkable precision. This article explores the potential of nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems (DDS) in cancer treatment, focusing on how nanoparticles can be engineered to target cancer cells selectively, thereby enhancing the therapeutic efficacy while minimizing side effects. The article reviews the various types of nanoparticles used in cancer drug delivery, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, and gold nanoparticles, among others. It discusses the role of targeting ligands, such as antibodies and peptides, in improving the specificity of drug delivery to cancer cells. The challenges of drug resistance, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity associated with these DDS are also analyzed. This paper offers insights into the future directions of nanomedicine in oncology, with an emphasis on clinical applications, regulatory considerations, and potential breakthroughs in precision medicine.