Micro/nanomotor: A promising drug delivery system for cancer therapy

Abstract

Micro/nanomotors (MNMs) are small-scale devices that can effectively convert various forms of energy into mechanical motion. Their controllable motility and good permeability have attracted the interest of researchers as promising drug carriers in cancer therapy. Compared with traditional formulations, micro/nanomotor drug delivery systems can greatly improve therapeutic efficiency and reduce the side effects of antitumor drugs. This review mainly discusses the advantages of micro/nanomotor drug delivery systems and the applications of MNMs propelled by exogenous, endogenous, and biohybrid power in cancer therapy. Finally, the main challenges of the applications of micro/nanomotor drug delivery systems, as well as future development trends and opportunities are discussed.

Keywords

• Micro/nanomotor
• Cancer therapy
• Drug delivery systems
• Controllable movement