Recent Advances in Stimuli-Responsive Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Glioma Theranostics: Progress and Perspective

Abstract

Glioma diagnosis and treatment remain formidable challenges in modern neuroscience due to their highly invasive feature, the presence of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), and significant tumor heterogeneity. Stimuli-responsive iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have emerged as a highly promising nanoplatform and attracted considerable attention owing to their excellent biocompatibility, unique magnetic properties, superior imaging contrast, and versatile therapeutic platform capabilities. These smart IONPs provide an arsenal to achieve accurate information about glioma progression and realize personalized therapy according to the change of microenvironment. Thereby, this review comprehensively summarizes recent advances in stimuli-responsive IONPs for glioma, with emphasis on BBB penetration, tumor targeting, and responsiveness to internal stimuli (pH, glutathione, enzymes) and external stimuli (magnetic fields, light, ultrasound). We also critically analyze current challenges and emerging opportunities and propose future research directions to accelerate the clinical translation of IONPs in glioma theranostics.