On cancer nanotechnology

Recent mathematical simulations revealed that particles with a spherical shape of 50-100nm in diameter are the worst possible geometries for drug delivery. By developing non-spherical particles in the optimal size, the properties of margination, extravasation, firm adhesion to the vascular endothelia, and control of phagocytic uptake can be optimized, leading to a dramatic increase in therapeutic index. The last category of first generation nanodevices are polymeric nanoparticles. These particles are in the form of polymer-protein conjugates. Multifunctional nanodevices can be functionalized to recognize diseased cells. The most promising strategy conjugates targeting moieties on the surface of the nanoparticle. They show the same specificity as monoclonal antibodies while having a reduced immune response. Furthermore, they can be stabilized with the aid of a disulfide bond, and be produced more economically.