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ABSTRACT
Introduction: Metastatic breast cancer is one of the most devastating cancers that have no cure. Many therapeutic and diagnostic strategies have been extensively studied in the past decade. Among these strategies, cancer nanotechnology has emerged as a promising strategy in preclinical studies by enabling early identification of primary tumors and metastases, and by effective killing of cancer cells.
Areas covered: This review covers the recent progress made in targeting and imaging of metastatic breast cancer with nanoparticles, and treatment using nanoparticle-enabled chemo-, gene, photothermal- and radio-therapies. This review also discusses recent developments of nanoparticle-enabled stem cell therapy and immunotherapy.
Expert opinion: Nanotechnology is expected to play important roles in modern therapy for cancers, including metastatic breast cancer. Nanoparticles are able to target and visualize metastasis in various organs, and deliver therapeutic agents. Through targeting cancer stem cells, nanoparticles are able to treat resistant tumors with minimal toxicity to healthy tissues/organs. Nanoparticles are also able to activate immune cells to eliminate tumors. Owing to their multifunctional, controllable and trackable features, nanotechnology-based imaging and therapy could be a highly potent approach for future cancer research and treatment.
Article highlights
Breast cancer and metastasis can be targeted and imaged using active and passive targeting NPs with conventional imaging modalities including near-infrared fluorescence imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, computer topography, etc.
NPs loaded with doxorubicin, paclitaxel or docetaxel as therapeutic agents are most investigated formulations for treating metastatic breast cancer.
NPs are also able to treat metastatic breast cancer as enhancers of photo-, magnetothermal, and radiotherapy.
Metastatic breast cancer with triple negative phenotype can be specifically targeted and treated with NPs that carry single or multiple therapeutic agents.
Breast cancer stem cells can be effectively treated with CD44-targeting NPs loaded with stem cell inhibitors.
NPs have intrinsic immune simulative effects that suppress tumor growth and inhibit metastasis.
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Declaration of interest
The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.