Intelligent delivery of antitumor drugs mediated by polymeric nanomicelles: a review

Abstract

Cancer therapy represents a challenge, even with the current scientific developments. Over the years, several studies have shown that the application of antitumor drug nanocarriers is an efficient strategy; however, it requires further improvement. Several nanosystems have been developed, some of which are already in use, including liposomes. Polymer-based nanocarriers are still being adjusted to the peculiarities of the human body due to the biological barriers that were encountered by the first systems that were developed. Among them, the formation of corona proteins, clearance by the endothelial reticulum system and kidneys, activation of the immune system, lack of selectivity, and difficult release have been extensively studied and improved with the development of new devices. In this review, we explore the evolution of primary nanocarriers based on polymeric micelles and highlight the gaps that remain in this field to assist in the research of new systems with superior therapeutic indices.

Keywords

• nanocarrier
• polymeric micelle
• nanomicelle
• anticancer therapy.