Key Takeaways & Executive Findings
- •• Recent DDS platforms significantly improve tumor targeting and reduce off-target effects. • Stimuli-responsive release mechanisms enable precise spatiotemporal control of drug delivery. • Combination therapies using DDS show synergistic effects and overcome multidrug resistance. • Clinical translation remains challenging due to tumor heterogeneity and scale-up issues.
Abstract
Targeted drug delivery systems (DDS) have revolutionized cancer therapy by enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic toxicity. This review summarizes recent advances in DDS, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, and antibody-drug conjugates. We discuss strategies for active targeting, stimuli-responsive release, and combination therapy. Clinical applications and challenges such as tumor heterogeneity and drug resistance are highlighted. Future directions emphasize personalized nanomedicine and theranostic approaches.
1. Introduction
Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, necessitating innovative therapeutic strategies. Conventional chemotherapy suffers from poor bioavailability and severe side effects. Targeted drug delivery systems (DDS) offer a promising solution by delivering therapeutic agents specifically to tumor sites, thereby enhancing efficacy and reducing toxicity.
Recent advancements in nanotechnology have led to the development of various DDS, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and dendrimers. These systems can be engineered to respond to tumor microenvironment cues, such as pH, enzymes, or redox potential, enabling controlled drug release. Additionally, active targeting via ligands or antibodies improves cellular uptake and specificity.
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Y. Zhang, L. Wang, H. Li, J. Chen, X. Liu (2026). Advances in Targeted Drug Delivery Systems for Cancer Therapy: A Review of Recent Developments. Chinese Journal of New Drugs. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12345-025-0001-2
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of targeted drug delivery systems?
The main types include liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, and antibody-drug conjugates, each with unique properties for cancer therapy.
How do stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems work?
These systems release drugs in response to specific triggers in the tumor microenvironment, such as pH, enzymes, or redox potential, ensuring precise drug release at the target site.
What are the challenges in clinical translation of DDS?
Challenges include tumor heterogeneity, drug resistance, scale-up manufacturing, and regulatory hurdles, which need to be addressed for successful clinical adoption.
Can DDS be used for combination therapy?
Yes, DDS can co-deliver multiple drugs or combine therapeutic and diagnostic agents, enabling synergistic effects and personalized treatment approaches.
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