Emerging nanotherapeutic strategies in breast cancer

Nanoparticle-based drug delivery platforms are emerging as powerful chemotherapeutic modalities in breast cancer. Doxorubicin and paclitaxel nanoparticle formulations are currently used clinically, yielding distinct pharmacokinetic parameters that prolong blood circulation times, enhance drug accumulation in tumors, and limit adverse side effects to patients. And while these nanoconstructs have shown substantial improvements in patient tolerability and survival, several emerging trends stand to make a significant impact on future generations of nanoparticle platforms for breast cancer therapy. Firstly, there is a heightened understanding of several processes involved in tumor growth, potentiation, and invasion, resulting in the identification of several attractive molecular targets. This in turn has given rise to antibody-based therapeutics, drug repositioning, and the burgeoning field of RNA interference (RNAi). Secondly, an enhanced understanding of transport phenomena involved in delivery of chemotherapeutics has led to a rethinking and retooling of nanoscale drug carrier designs. Nanoparticle platforms are now incorporating features meant to overcome biological barriers and enhance drug accumulation within tumors, all the while incorporating unique chemistries that enable for controlled release of therapeutic payloads. This review aims to detail the current clinical state of nanoparticle-based therapeutics in breast cancer, as well as highlight several platforms that exemplify the future generation of innovative approaches to chemotherapy in breast cancer. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.