Nanotechnology in Cancer Detection and Treatment

Abstract

 

Nanotechnology has taken great strides in the field of medicine with improved drug delivery systems. The application of nanoparticles in cancer detection and treatment has been prominent in recent years wherein unique properties can be utilized for detection of site specific tumors. The main objective of this review is to give an update on the available techniques and briefly describe the nano-medicines developed so far for an effective treatment. Conventional techniques face the problem of toxicity resulting from the administered drug. In addition to this, most of the techniques available detect cancer only after metastasis which hampers the effectiveness of the anti-cancer drug. Through the application of nanotechnology techniques, active cancer cells can be differentiated and treated without harming the healthy cells. This review discusses the use of nanoparticles like quantum dots and fullerenes for detection of cancer cells by acting as imaging agents. These are crucial for identifying the affected cells and tissues for effective measurement. Liposomes and dendrimers are used in treatment through development of advanced drug delivery systems. Some other nanoparticles like carbon nanotubes and magnetic nanoparticles have extended application in both imaging and treatment. Due to its wide ranging properties and diverse applications, the nanoparticles developed so far and nanotechnology as a whole has a huge potential in cancer treatment.