ADVANCES AND CHALLENGES IN NANOPARTICLE DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS FOR CANCER TREATMENT: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Nanoparticle drug delivery systems have emerged as a transformative approach in cancer therapy, offering targeted delivery, reduced systemic toxicity, and improved therapeutic efficacy. Despite significant advancements, challenges such as biocompatibility, scalability, and clinical translation remain unresolved. This systematic literature review aims to synthesize recent developments and identify critical gaps in nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems for cancer treatment, focusing on their design, functionality, and application across diverse cancer types. We conducted a comprehensive analysis of peer-reviewed studies, evaluating the progress in general nanoparticle systems, specific nanoparticle types, and their mechanisms of action in targeted cancer therapy. The review highlights the versatility of nanoparticles, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and inorganic carriers, which exhibit unique advantages in drug encapsulation, stability, and controlled release. Furthermore, we examine how these systems address the heterogeneity of cancers, enabling precise delivery to tumours while minimizing off-target effects. Key findings reveal that surface modifications and stimuli-responsive designs significantly enhance targeting efficiency and therapeutic outcomes. However, translational challenges such as immune responses, manufacturing consistency, and regulatory hurdles persist. By consolidating current knowledge, this review provides a critical assessment of the field's state, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to bridge the gap between preclinical research and clinical implementation. The insights gained underscore the potential of nanoparticle drug delivery systems to revolutionize cancer treatment while outlining future directions for overcoming existing limitations.