Recent progress in cancer immunotherapy: Application of nano-therapeutic systems

Abstract

Cancer immunotherapy is a hopeful strategy that seeks to enhance the immune system's capacity to detect, manage, and eradicate cancerous cells. It has shown promise in halting the dissemination of tumor cells via the bloodstream and impeding micro-metastases in remote organs. The primary techniques for cancer immunotherapy involve utilizing tumor-specific antibodies and immune effector cells. Researches are being conducted on nanoparticle-based therapeutic systems as an alternative to immunosuppressive drugs, which have poor immunogenicity and side effects. These systems have immunomodulatory agents that activate immune cells and modify the tumor microenvironment, leading to enhanced antitumor immunity. This review provides an overview of the latest developments in cancer nanoimmunotherapy, including the mechanisms of action and applications of various organic and inorganic nanoparticles (such as liposomes, polysaccharides, synthetic polymers, iron oxide, gold, and black phosphorous), as well as nanocomposite hydrogels, nanogels, and emulsions. The review also explores the emerging field of stimuli-responsive nanotherapeutics in cancer immunotherapy. Finally, the clinical applications, future prospects, and challenges of nanotherapeutic systems in cancer immunotherapy are discussed. © 2023 Elsevier B.V.