Advances in Nanotechnology-Based Drug Delivery Systems for Lung Cancer Therapy: A Review

Abstract

Lung cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers globally, with conventional therapies often falling short

due to their systemic toxicity, poor specificity, and limited efficacy against resistant tumors. Nanotechnology-based

drug delivery systems have emerged as a promising solution to these challenges, offering targeted, controlled, and

sustained release of therapeutic agents directly at the tumor site. This review explores the potential of nanotechnology

in revolutionizing lung cancer therapy by examining various nanocarriers, including liposomes, polymeric

nanoparticles, dendrimers, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanomicelles, inorganic nanoparticles, and exosomes. These

systems enable enhanced drug delivery through passive targeting (via the enhanced permeability and retention effect)

and active targeting (through ligand-receptor interactions), significantly improving drug efficacy and reducing off-

target toxicity. Furthermore, nanocarriers facilitate the co-delivery of multiple therapeutic agents, including

chemotherapy, gene therapy, and immunotherapy, overcoming issues such as multidrug resistance and tumor

heterogeneity. We also highlight the integration of nanotechnology with diagnostic agents for therapeutic applications,

enabling real-time monitoring of therapeutic progress. While challenges such as large-scale production and safety

concerns remain, the continued development of nanomedicine holds immense promise for the future of personalized

lung cancer treatment, offering new hope for improved patient outcomes.