Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1
Department of Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21521, Egypt
2
Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Graduate Studies and Research (IGSR), Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21526, Egypt.
3
Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21521, Egypt
4
University of Bahrain, Sakhir, Bahrain
5
Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Egypt
Abstract
Cancer treatment has been confronted with serious challenges. These challenges stemmed from the heterogeneity of tumor microenvironment, as well as genetic and epigenetic factors related to cancer cells. The changes imposed by the tumor lead to the development of acquired resistance. Drug efflux, inhibition of apoptosis, immunosuppression are examples of resistance mechanisms imposed by cancer cells. Nanotechnology has sought to overcome these resistance mechanisms through enhanced cellular uptake, activation of alternative pathways by combined drug delivery, or targeting immune cells leading to their activation and proliferation. Several types of nanomedicine-based systems were implemented; however, protein and peptide nanoparticles remain one versatile tool in drug delivery, providing preferable physicochemical and biological implications. Notably, protein and peptide nanocarriers can also exhibit enhanced cellular uptake, the possibility of tuned drug release, and hence, better tumor targetability. Here, we present the methods of fabrication, physicochemical characteristics, biological implications, and future perspectives, focusing on overcoming cancer drug resistance.
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