ROLE OF NANOPARTICLES IN CANCER DIAGNOSIS AND THERAPY

Rohan Kailas Kathale*, Dipak anil Kathale, Ritesh Santosh Pachade, Aishwarya Suryakant Kharat, Nikita Kailas Kale, Prof. Ajay L. Lahane, Dr. Nandu Kayande

Nanoparticles have emerged as powerful tools in the field of oncology, offering significant advancements in both cancer diagnosis and therapy. Due to their unique physicochemical properties, such as small size, large surface area, and the ability to be functionalized with targeting ligands, nanoparticles enable improved detection and treatment of tumors. In cancer diagnosis, nanoparticles enhance imaging techniques by acting as contrast agents in modalities like magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and fluorescence imaging, allowing for early and accurate tumor detection. Their ability to selectively accumulate in tumor tissues through the enhanced permeability and retention effect further improves diagnostic precision.In therapeutic applications, nanoparticles serve as efficient drug delivery systems, enabling targeted delivery of chemotherapeutic agents directly to cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Additionally, nanoparticles are being explored in advanced therapies such as photothermal and photodynamic therapy, where they facilitate localized destruction of cancer cells upon external stimulation. Some nanoparticle systems also support combined diagnostic and therapeutic functions, known as theranostics, which allow simultaneous monitoring and treatment of cancer.Despite these promising benefits, challenges such as potential toxicity, long-term safety, and large-scale production remain concerns that need to be addressed. Overall, nanoparticles represent a transformative approach in cancer management, with the potential to significantly improve early diagnosis, targeted therapy, and patient outcomes.