Nanoformulation-based drug delivery systems for the treatment of gastric cancer: recent developments and future prospects

Abstract

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Despite significant efforts and recent advances in GC treatment, therapeutic efficacy remains suboptimal. In recent years, emerging nanomaterials have demonstrated considerable potential for cancer therapy, primarily due to their ability to function as drug carriers that enable targeted and precise delivery of therapeutic agents to tumour tissues. This not only increases therapeutic efficacy but also reduces side effects. Herein, we present a comprehensive review of the major types of nanoformulations, including liposomes, albumin-based nanoparticles (NPs), polymer-based NPs, inorganic NPs, and cell-derived nanomaterials. We also examine recently reported nanoformulations for various GC treatment strategies, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, gene therapy, phototherapy, and combined therapy. We highlight the design concepts and principles underlying these nanoformulations employed in GC treatment. Additionally, we discuss the challenges associated with nanoformulation-based treatments for GC as well as future prospects in this rapidly evolving field.