Theranostic polymeric nanoparticles as a new approach in cancer therapy and diagnosis: a review

Abstract

The theranostic term is a revolutionary topic in cancer treatment, combining therapeutic and diagnostic. Theranostic provides an opportunity for diagnosis and response assessment during treatment. Therefore, a single approach can determine an effective line of treatment. The real-time monitoring of therapeutic strategy aimed to be reached by co-delivery of imaging and pharmaceutical agents. The nanoscale carriers are promising platforms in theranostic applications. Although, it is worth bearing in mind that providing diagnosis and therapy in the same structure is troublesome. Imaging modalities are designed to improve the signal-to-noise ratio with rapid clearance. At the same time, therapeutic agents require to accumulate with high concentrations at the disease site. Moreover, the importance of biocompatibility of nanocarriers necessitates the careful design of theranostic nanostructures. Here, we present an overview of the characteristics of nanoparticles as theranostic polymeric agents in biological applications.