Theranostic applications of nanoparticles in cancer

Drug Discov Today. 2012 Sep;17(17-18):928-34. doi: 10.1016/j.drudis.2012.03.010. Epub 2012 Mar 30.

Abstract

Nanoparticles are the moieties that have undergone the most investigation in recent years for biomedical applications. They are applied in the field of oncology in the same way as in other branches of biomedical nanotechnology. Regarding cancer, nanoparticles, and especially magnetic nanoparticles, are studied for diagnosis, drug delivery, gene delivery, bioseparation, hyperthermia, phototherapy, chemotherapy, imaging mechanisms, among other uses. Different techniques are used to prepare multifunctional nanoparticles and modify nanoparticle surfaces required for different applications. This review focuses on the basic theranostic approach, the different materials used in theranostics, theranostic applications and future directions based on recent developments in these areas.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Nanomedicine
  • Nanoparticles / therapeutic use*
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*