Title:Functionalised Ligand-Based Nanomaterial Drug Targeting Approaches for Colorectal Cancer Therapy
Volume: 18
Issue: 3
Author(s): Amol A. Dixit, Deepa S. Mandlik and Satish K. Mandlik*
Affiliation:
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University,
Erandwane, Pune, Maharashtra, 411038, India
Keywords:
Colorectal cancer, nanocarriers, tumor targeting, ligands, nanostructured lipid carriers, drug targeting.
Abstract: Cancer refers to a condition in which abnormal cells uncontrollably divide, resulting in
the destruction of tissues. In colorectal cancer, uncontrolled cell proliferation takes place in the rectum
or colon. Most colorectal tumors start as adenomas, a form of polyp that can develop into cancer
within the rectum or colon. Symptoms of colorectal cancer include chronic diarrhea or constipation,
bleeding from the rectum, bloody stools, change in appetite, weight loss, etc. Risk factors associated
with colorectal cancer are smoking, obesity, and low physical activity. Colorectal cancer
can be treated depending on size, location, and the spread of the cancer. Treatment includes surgery
where the lymph node is dissected and a colectomy is performed. Chemotherapy and radiation therapies
are other treatment options, but the main disadvantage is that these treatments have nonspecific
avenues. Apart from killing cancerous cells, they damage healthy cells, too. Therefore, with the
help of nanotechnology, drug-containing nanoparticles can be created with the aid of nanocarriers,
which are stronger, more durable, and site-specific. The cancerous cells can be actively targeted by
formulating nanoparticles loaded with anticancer drugs and functionalising the surface by either attaching
ligands (peptides, antibodies, and small molecules) or targeting molecules towards receptors
that are present on the exterior surface of the cancerous cells. These surfaces functionalised nanoparticles,
loaded with anticancer drugs, are significantly upregulated in cancerous cells in contrast
to healthy surrounding cells and tissues. This review article is focused on ligand-based drugs targeting
colorectal tumours.
