Nanodiagnostic and Nanotherapeutic Molecular Platforms for Cancer Management

Abstract

Over the last ten years rapid progress is being made regarding the incorporation of nanoparticles in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Besides the limitations that have to be addressed, there are various research studies suggesting some promising nanodiagnostic and nanotherapeutic platforms for cancer managment. Nanotherapeutic platforms are based on the localized application of nanoparticles using targeting moieties, most usually antibodies, in order to in vivo direct nanoparticles to cancer cells. Thereafter, either nanoparticles react to external stimulus, for example under radiofrequency waves nanoparticles generate thermal energy, or they are used for targeted drug-delivery platforms, which allows the augmentation of drug concentration in the cancerous site of the body and thus minimizing side effects and increasing the efficacy of the drug. Regarding nanodiagnostics, particular focus is paid on nanoparticles that can act as contrast agents in cancer imaging for in vivo nanodiagnostics and on nanobiochips and nanobiosensor, devices that incorporate the lab on a chip notion for in vitro nanodiagnostics. In this review, several advanced nanodiagnostic and nanotherapeutic platforms are discussed, on the development of more effective and targeted molecular techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.