Revolutionizing lung cancer treatment: Nanotechnology-driven advances in targeted drug delivery and novel therapeutic strategies

Lung cancer, the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality and incidence globally, presents a formidable challenge with an estimated 238,340 new cases and 127,070 deaths projected in 2023. These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for more effective therapeutic strategies, given the limitations of current treatments in efficacy and early detection. Nanotechnology, with its potential for precise, targeted drug delivery, offers a promising avenue to overcome these challenges by enhancing therapeutic effectiveness and reducing systemic toxicity. Recent advancements in this field have led to the development of various nanocarriers-such as solid lipid nanoparticles, dendrimers, carbon nanotubes, and gold nanoparticles-each providing unique advantages, including customizable release profiles, multi-modal loading, and the ability to bypass biological barriers. This review critically examines the rapidly evolving landscape of nanocarrier-based therapeutics in lung cancer, focusing on innovative receptor-targeted approaches that leverage tumor-specific markers like EGFR, HER2, and PD-L1 for precise drug delivery. Furthermore, we explore cutting-edge strategies employing stimuli-responsive release mechanisms aimed at minimizing off-target effects and enhancing tumor selectivity. Clinical trials underscore the potential of these nanotechnology-driven therapies to revolutionize lung cancer treatment, offering more personalized and effective options for patients. By advancing these novel approaches, nanotechnology stands to make a significant impact in transforming the therapeutic landscape for lung cancer, addressing the pressing need for more efficient and targeted treatment modalities.