Emerging potentials of nanotherapeutics in breast cancer microenvironment targeting

Abstract

Breast cancer is considered to be one among the foremost malignancies in women around the world. Even though remarkable progress has been made in various novel treatments, the general therapeutic benefits as well as the survival rates are not satisfactory. The complex tumor microenvironment of breast neoplasms is cumulatively responsible for the proliferation of cancer cells and disease progression. Analysis of biomarkers sourced from the microenvironment have supported the reliance of cancer cells on the varied constituents of the surrounding microenvironment for their growth and proliferation, highlighting its importance in targeted therapy. Recent studies indicate the beneficial effects of nano-formulations being utilised in breast cancer treatment, and have shown improved target specificity and bioavailability, thereby effectively controlling the growth and proliferation of tumours. This article gives a comprehensive overview of some current nano-strategies being explored for targeting the breast tumor microenvironment with the aim of improving antitumor efficiency. The strategies highlighted include delivery of chemotherapeutic agents by triggers such as hypoxia and micro-acid environment, nano carrier systems to improve immunotherapy, targeting stromal cells, and the possibilities of using exosomes as targeted delivery systems. Additionally, we have supported our research with latest clinical data and discussed its challenges and future perspectives.

Keywords

• Tumour microenvironment
• Nanotechnology
• Hypoxia
• Breast cancer
• Inflammation