Chapter 8 - Polymeric nanoparticles in colorectal cancer

Abstract

A high rate of morbidity and mortality is associated with colorectal cancer, making it the third most prevalent malignant tumor in the world. Polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) have emerged as a promising platform for cancer therapy with a specific target. Using surface receptors or ligands, PNPs can encapsulate medications and target specific cancer cells. Oral or rectal injection of PNPs to the colon has been found to efficiently target and accumulate colon cancer cells while reducing damage to healthy cells. Encapsulating chemotherapeutic medicines, such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) with PNPs, and targeting them to colon cancer cells using antibodies or peptides that bind to receptors overexpressed on the surface of colon cancer cells is one emerging technique for colon cancer therapy. This strategy can improve the therapeutic efficacy of the medications and decrease their adverse effects. PNPs can be employed to trigger cancer cell death or suppress cancer growth by encapsulating therapeutic genes, such as those encoding for anticancer proteins. PNPs are a versatile platform for targeted colon cancer therapy, with the potential to improve the efficacy of chemotherapy and gene therapy while lowering adverse effects. It is crucial to emphasize, however, that further study is required to refine PNP design and targeting tactics before it can be implemented in clinical settings. This compilation contains the most recent findings and advancements in PNP systems for the treatment of colon cancer.