Recent advancements in the targeted delivery of Gemcitabine: Harnessing nanomedicine for enhanced cancer therapy

Abstract

Gemcitabine (GEM) is a chemotherapeutic drug widely used for treating pancreatic cancer and other cancers. Despite its efficacy, GEM is associated with adverse side effects and tumor resistance, hampering its therapeutic outcomes. To address these challenges, innovative strategies have emerged to enhance GEM delivery. This comprehensive review explores various distribution systems, including polymer-based platforms, liposomes, and inorganic nanoparticles, highlighting their unique characteristics for improving GEM efficacy in cancer treatment. Additionally, we discuss the promising approach of codelivery with genes and present several methods for augmenting GEM's chemotherapeutic properties. Our findings shed light on novel insights and provide recommendations for overcoming the limitations associated with GEM, guiding researchers and clinicians toward more effective cancer therapies.

Keywords

• Polymeric nanoparticles
• Lipid-based nanoparticles
• Inorganic nanoparticles
• Co-delivery