Polymeric nanotheranostics for solid tumor management: Recent developments and global regulatory landscape

Abstract

AbstractPolymeric nanotheranostics have emerged as promising vehicles for diagnosis‐cum‐targeted therapy in solid tumors, offering precise delivery of therapeutic agents at the site of solid tumors and minimizing systemic side effects. This article summarizes the latest developments in using polymeric nanoparticles for specific treatment strategies in solid tumors. It explores the various methods these nanoparticles utilize for targeted medication delivery. This includes passive targeting through the amplified permeability and retention effect, active targeting via interactions between ligands and receptors, and stimuli‐responsive release mechanisms such as pH, temperature, and enzymatic triggers. Furthermore, we highlight recent developments in stimuli‐responsive polymeric nanoparticles, which enable controlled drug release in response to specific cues in the tumor microenvironment, thus enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Also, we focus on the theranostic polymeric nanoparticles, which are used for diagnosing and treating solid tumors. We discuss critical regulatory considerations and the regulatory bodies of different countries that regulate nanomedicines' safety, efficacy, quality, and manufacturing processes. Overall, this review provides insights into the latest innovations in polymeric nanoparticles for targeted therapy in solid tumors, elucidating their mechanisms of action, stimuli‐responsive properties, and regulatory pathways, which collectively contribute to developing effective and safe nanomedicines for cancer treatment.