Cancer represents a major worldwide disease burden marked by escalating incidence and mortality. While therapeutic advances persist, developing safer and precisely targeted modalities remains imperative. Nanomedicines emerges as a transformative paradigm leveraging distinctive physicochemical properties to achieve tumor-specific drug delivery, controlled release, and tumor microenvironment modulation. By synergizing passive enhanced permeation and retention effect-driven accumulation and active ligand-mediated targeting, nanoplatforms enhance pharmacokinetics, promote tumor microenvironment enrichment, and improve cellular internalization while mitigating systemic toxicity. Despite revolutionizing cancer therapy through enhanced treatment efficacy and reduced adverse effects, translational challenges persist in manufacturing scalability, longterm biosafety, and cost-efficiency. This review systematically analyzes cutting-edge nanoplatforms, including polymeric, lipidic, biomimetic, albumin-based, peptide engineered, DNA origami, and inorganic nanocarriers, while evaluating their strategic advantages and technical limitations across three therapeutic domains: immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. By assessing structure-function correlations and clinical translation barriers, this work establishes mechanistic and translational references to advance oncological nanomedicine development.
Humans ; Neoplasms/radiotherapy* ; Immunotherapy/methods* ; Nanoparticles/chemistry* ; Animals ; Nanomedicine/methods* ; Drug Delivery Systems/methods* ; Drug Carriers/chemistry* ; Radiotherapy/methods*

In this experiment, self-assembled nanoparticles(SANs) were prepared by the pH-driven method, and Her-HCP SAN was constructed by using herpetrione(Her) and Herpetospermum caudigerum polysaccharides(HCPs). The average particle size and polydispersity index(PDI) were used as evaluation indexes for process optimization, and the quality of the final formulation was evaluated in terms of particle size, PDI, Zeta potential, and microstructure. The proposed Her-HCP SAN showed a spheroid structure and uniform morphology, with an average particle size of(244.58±16.84) nm, a PDI of 0.147 1±0.014 8, and a Zeta potential of(-38.52±2.11) mV. Her-HCP SAN significantly increased the saturation solubility of Her by 2.69 times, with a cumulative release of 90.18% within eight hours. The results of in vivo unidirectional intestinal perfusion reveal that Her active pharmaceutical ingredient(API) is most effectively absorbed in the jejunum, where both K_a and P_(app) are significantly higher compared to the ileum(P<0.001). However, the addition of HCP leads to a significant reduction in the P_(app) of Her in the jejunum(P<0.05). Furthermore, the formation of the Her-HCP SAN results in a notably lower P_(app) in the jejunum compared to Her API alone(P<0.001), while both K_a and P_(app) in the ileum are significantly increased(P<0.001, P<0.05). The absorption of Her-HCP SAN at different concentrations in the ileum shows no significant differences, and the pH has no significant effect on the absorption of Her-HCP SAN in the ileum. The addition of the transporter protein inhibitors(indomethacin and rifampicin) significantly increases the absorption parameters K_a and P_(app) of Her-HCP SAN in the ileum(P<0.05,P<0.01), whereas the addition of verapamil has no significant effect on the intestinal absorption parameters of Her-HCP SAN, suggesting that Her may be a substrate for multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 and breast cancer resistance proteins but not a substrate of P-glycoprotein.
Nanoparticles/metabolism* ; Polysaccharides/pharmacokinetics* ; Intestinal Absorption/drug effects* ; Animals ; Rats ; Particle Size ; Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacokinetics* ; Male ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Drug Carriers/chemistry* ; Drug Compounding ; Cucurbitaceae/chemistry*

Gambogic acid(GA), a caged xanthone derivative isolated from Garcinia Hanburyi, exhibits significant antitumor activity and has advanced to phase Ⅱ clinical trials for lung cancer treatment in China. However, the clinical application of GA is severely hindered by its inherent limitations, including poor water solubility, a lack of targeting specificity, and significant side effects. Novel drug delivery systems not only overcome these pharmacological deficiencies but also integrate multiple therapeutic modalities, transcending the limitations of monotherapeutic approaches. In this study, we designed a multifunctional nanodelivery platform(PDA-PEG-Fe(Ⅲ)-GOx-GA) using polydopamine(PDA) as the core material. After the modification of PDA with polyethylene glycol(PEG), Fe(Ⅲ) ions, glucose oxidase(GOx), and GA were sequentially loaded via coordination interactions, electrostatic adsorption, and hydrophobic interactions, respectively. This system demonstrated excellent physiological stability, hemocompatibility, and photothermal conversion efficiency. Notably, under dual stimuli of pH and near-infrared(NIR) irradiation, PDA-PEG-Fe(Ⅲ)-GOx-GA achieved controlled GA release, with a cumulative release rate of 58.3% at 12 h, 3.6-fold higher than that under non-stimulated conditions. Under NIR irradiation, the synergistic effects of PDA-mediated photothermal therapy, Fe(Ⅲ)-induced chemodynamic therapy, GOx-generated starvation therapy, and GA-mediated chemotherapy resulted in effective inhibition of tumor cell proliferation(91.5% inhibition rate) and induction of apoptosis(83.3% apoptosis rate). This multi-modal approach realized a comprehensive treatment strategy for lung cancer, integrating various therapeutic pathways.
Xanthones/pharmacology* ; Humans ; Polymers/chemistry* ; Glucose Oxidase/pharmacology* ; Indoles/chemistry* ; Drug Delivery Systems ; Drug Carriers/chemistry* ; Nanoparticles/chemistry* ; Cell Line, Tumor

Bufalin(BF)has a significant anti-tumor effect, but its clinical application is severely restricted by its high toxicity and poor water solubility. In this study, Scrophularia ningpoensis polysaccharide(SNP)and ursodeoxycholic acid(UDCA) were synthesized into an SNP-UDCA conjugate. BF was encapsulated to prepare BF/SNP-UDCA nanoparticles(NPs). The amphiphilic compound SNP-UDCA was synthesized via the one-step method, and its structure was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy(FT-IR)and proton nuclear magnetic resonance(~1H-NMR). The preparation process of BF/SNP-UDCA NPs was optimized through single-factor investigations. The encapsulation efficiency and drug-loading capacity of BF/SNP-UDCA NPs were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC). The molecular form of BF/SNP-UDCA NPs was characterized by using a transmission electron microscope, X-ray diffraction(XRD), and differential scanning calorimeter(DSC). Additionally, the stability of BF/SNP-UDCA NPs was evaluated. The release behavior of BF/SNP-UDCA NPs at different pH values was determined by dialysis. The in vitro anti-tumor effect of BF/SNP-UDCA NPs was evaluated by MTT cytotoxicity assay, flow cytometry for apoptosis, and cellular uptake. The in vitro liver targeting was evaluated by measuring cellular uptake by laser confocal microscopy. The results demonstrated that the SNP-UDCA conjugate was successfully synthesized through an esterification reaction between SNP and UDCA. The preparation process of BF/SNP-UDCA NPs was as follows: the feed ratio of SNP-UDCA to BF was 2∶1, the ultrasonic time was 30 minutes, and the stirring time was two hours. The prepared BF/SNP-UDCA NPs were spherical in shape, with a particle size of(252.74±6.05)nm, an encapsulation efficiency of 65.00%±2.51%, and a drug-loading capacity of 6.80%±0.44%. The XRD and DSC results indicated that BF was encapsulated within the NPs and existed in a molecular or amorphous state. The short-term stability of BF/SNP-UDCA NPs and stability in DMEM medium are good, and their in vitro release behavior followed the first-order equation and was pH-dependent according to the in vitro experiment. Compared with BF, BF/SNP-UDCA NPs at the same concentration showed significantly stronger cytotoxicity and apoptotic effects on HepG2 cells(P<0.05, P<0.01). The uptake of coumarin 6(C6)/SNP-UDCA NPs in HepG2 cells was time-dependent and higher than that in HeLa cells at the same concentration of C6/SNP-UDCA NPs. Moreover, after treatment with SNP, the uptake of C6/SNP-UDCA NPs in HepG2 cells decreased. In conclusion, the preparation process of BF/SNP-UDCA NPs was simple and feasible. BF/SNP-UDCA NPs could enhance the targeting ability and inhibitory effect of BF on liver cancer cells. This study will provide a foundation for liver-targeting nanoformulations of BF.
Bufanolides/pharmacology* ; Nanoparticles/chemistry* ; Humans ; Drug Carriers/chemistry* ; Ursodeoxycholic Acid/chemistry* ; Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology* ; Polysaccharides/chemistry* ; Scrophularia/chemistry* ; Liver Neoplasms/physiopathology* ; Hep G2 Cells

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic, idiopathic, and recurrent gastrointestinal disorder with an unclear etiology and uncertain pathogenesis. Traditional treatment strategies rely on frequent administration of high doses of medication to reduce inflammation, whereas these approaches have limitations and may induce potential complications. Therefore, finding more effective and safe therapeutic drugs and methods is particularly important. Plant-derived exosome-like nanovesicles(PDELNs) are nano-sized vesicles with a lipid bilayer structure that are secreted by plant cells. The bioactive molecules contained within, such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, can serve as information carriers, playing a role in the transmission of information and substances between cells and across species. PDELNs can carry and transfer their own bioactive substances or act as carriers for delivering other active components or drugs. Due to the high biocompatibility, low toxicity, and significant bioactivity, PDELNs have garnered widespread attention. Compared with other exosomes, PDELNs are not destroyed in the gastrointestinal tract when taken orally and can reach the intestines. This unique property makes PDELNs a promising oral nanodrug for treating intestinal diseases, showing great potential in this area. This article reviews recent research literature on PDELNs regarding the physicochemical characteristics, extraction and purification methods, functions, application characteristics and mechanisms in the treatment of intestinal diseases, and use as a carrier for treating intestinal diseases, aiming to provide a reference for the use of PDELNs in the treatment of intestinal diseases.
Humans ; Exosomes/metabolism* ; Animals ; Intestinal Diseases/metabolism* ; Plants/metabolism* ; Drug Carriers/chemistry* ; Drugs, Chinese Herbal/chemistry* ; Drug Delivery Systems ; Nanoparticles/chemistry*

Myocardial infarction is a cardiovascular disease with high morbidity and mortality rates. Hydrogel biomaterials mimicking the extracellular matrix have recently been shown to demonstrate excellent biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, favorable biodegradability, and multifunctionality, showcasing significant potential for treatment of myocardial infarction. Hydrogels can provide mechanical support to the damaged myo-cardium, alleviating pathological remodeling. Moreover, their porous structure makes them ideal carriers for localized and sustained drug delivery. Hydrogels derived from various matrices-including polysaccharides, polypeptides, proteins, decellularized extracellular matrix, and synthetic polymers-exhibit distinct properties in terms of biocompatibility, mechanical performance, and drug delivery capacity. These hydrogels support tissue regeneration and enable targeted release of diverse therapeutics, meeting the various therapeutic demands for myocardial repair. In the infarcted myocardial microenvironment, endogenous signals such as low pH, specific enzyme expression, and elevated levels of reactive oxygen species can trigger responsive drug release from hydrogels, while external physical stimuli-such as ultrasound, light, and magnetic fields-can also be employed to precisely control the release process, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy and reducing systemic side effects. This review summarizes recent advances in hydrogel-based drug delivery systems for treatment of myocardial infarction, focusing particularly on the characteristics and advantages of different hydrogel materials for myocardial repair. Furthermore, the responsive drug release behavior of hydrogels is analyzed in the context of the cardiac injury microenvironment, providing a reference for future research.
Hydrogels/chemistry* ; Myocardial Infarction/drug therapy* ; Humans ; Drug Delivery Systems/methods* ; Biocompatible Materials ; Drug Carriers

Pure drug nanomedicines (PDNs) encompass active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), including macromolecules, biological compounds, and functional components. They overcome research barriers and conversion thresholds associated with nanocarriers, offering advantages such as high drug loading capacity, synergistic treatment effects, and environmentally friendly production methods. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in PDNs, focusing on their essential components, design theories, and manufacturing techniques. The physicochemical properties and in vivo behaviors of PDNs are thoroughly analyzed to gain an in-depth understanding of their systematic characteristics. The review introduces currently approved PDN products and further explores the opportunities and challenges in expanding their depth and breadth of application. Drug nanocrystals, drug-drug cocrystals (DDCs), antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), and nanobodies represent the successful commercialization and widespread utilization of PDNs across various disease domains. Self-assembled pure drug nanoparticles (SAPDNPs), a next-generation product, still require extensive translational research. Challenges persist in transitioning from laboratory-scale production to mass manufacturing and overcoming the conversion threshold from laboratory findings to clinical applications.
Nanomedicine ; Humans ; Nanoparticles/chemistry* ; Pharmaceutical Preparations/chemistry* ; Animals ; Drug Carriers/chemistry*

Nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems (nDDSs) present significant opportunities for improving disease treatment, offering advantages in drug encapsulation, solubilization, stability enhancement, and optimized pharmacokinetics and biodistribution. nDDSs, comprising lipid, polymeric, protein, and inorganic nanovehicles, can be guided by or respond to biological cues for precise disease treatment and management. Equipping nanocarriers with tissue/cell-targeted ligands enables effective navigation in complex environments, while functionalization with stimuli-responsive moieties facilitates site-specific controlled release. These strategies enhance drug delivery efficiency, augment therapeutic efficacy, and reduce side effects. This article reviews recent strategies and ongoing advancements in nDDSs for targeted drug delivery and controlled release, examining lesion-targeted nanomedicines through surface modification with small molecules, peptides, antibodies, carbohydrates, or cell membranes, and controlled-release nanocarriers responding to endogenous signals such as pH, redox conditions, enzymes, or external triggers like light, temperature, and magnetism. The article also discusses perspectives on future developments.
Humans ; Drug Carriers/chemistry* ; Drug Delivery Systems/methods* ; Delayed-Action Preparations/chemistry* ; Nanoparticles/chemistry* ; Animals ; Drug Liberation ; Nanomedicine

Natural herbs demonstrate significant therapeutic potential in managing chronic and complex diseases; however, their clinical application faces limitations due to low bioavailability, instability, toxicity, and herb-drug interactions. Furthermore, insufficient standardized evidence and global acceptance impede their widespread adoption. Liposomes, nanocarriers consisting of a phospholipid bilayer enclosing an aqueous core, present a promising approach for enhancing the pharmacokinetics and therapeutic efficacy of herbal compounds. These adaptable systems can encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic agents, enabling targeted drug delivery and enhanced stability. Moreover, liposomes can be modified to carry diagnostic and imaging agents, enabling precise disease detection and monitoring. While liposomes offer potential as an innovative delivery technology for herbal remedies, their application in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) remains relatively unexplored. TCM, with its holistic, energy-based approach to health and organ function, presents distinct challenges regarding formulation and delivery. This review examines the therapeutic potential of herbal medicines, emphasizing how liposomes address delivery challenges within the TCM framework. It also investigates the integration of TCM with Western medical practices, demonstrating how liposomal systems may bridge these approaches. The review analyzes key formulation techniques for TCM-loaded liposomes, particularly the microfluidic method, which demonstrates superior control over particle size and encapsulation efficiency compared to conventional methods. The analysis addresses barriers to integrating liposomal delivery systems with TCM, including physicochemical properties, scalability issues, and regulatory challenges. Finally, this review provides strategic recommendations for overcoming these obstacles and identifies future research directions to maximize the potential of liposomal technology in enhancing TCM therapies.
Liposomes/chemistry* ; Drugs, Chinese Herbal/administration & dosage* ; Humans ; Medicine, Chinese Traditional/methods* ; Drug Delivery Systems ; Drug Carriers/chemistry* ; Animals ; Nanoparticles/chemistry*

In recent years, there has been an increasing emphasis on exploring innovative drug delivery approaches due to the limitations of conventional therapeutic strategies, such as inadequate drug targeting, insufficient therapeutic efficacy, and significant adverse effects. Nanomedicines have emerged as a promising solution with notable advantages, including extended drug circulation, targeted delivery, and improved bioavailability, potentially enhancing the clinical treatment of various diseases. Natural products/materials-derived nanomedicines, characterized by their natural therapeutic efficacy, superior biocompatibility, and safety profile, play a crucial role in nanomedicine-based treatments. This review provides a comprehensive overview of currently approved natural products-derived nanomedicines, emphasizing the essential properties of natural products-derived drug carriers, their applications in clinical diagnosis and treatment, and the current therapeutic potential and challenges. The aim is to offer guidance for the application and further development of these innovative therapeutic approaches.
Animals ; Humans ; Biological Products/chemistry* ; Drug Carriers/chemistry* ; Drug Delivery Systems ; Nanomedicine/methods*