Advanced nanotheranostic approaches for hepatocellular carcinoma management

Abstract

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) stands as a formidable global health challenge, particularly in the context of chronic liver diseases, with significant associations to hepatitis B and C infections, alcohol misuse, and metabolic syndrome. The late-stage detection and complex treatment landscape have led to high mortality rates, necessitating innovative solutions. This review explores the emerging field of Nanotheranostics as a potent next-generation approach to combat HCC (Hepatocellular Carcinoma). The conventional diagnostic methods for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) present challenges in early detection, impacting treatment outcomes. Current imaging techniques, relying on criteria like arterial hyper-enhancement and delayed washout, exhibit limited sensitivity. Global variations in early detection rates further complicate therapeutic interventions. Nanotheranostics, an integration of diagnostic and therapeutic functionalities within nanoparticles, emerges as a promising solution. In diagnostics, Nanotheranostics utilizes diverse imaging modalities, such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CT (Computed Tomography), Positron emission tomography (PET), and optical imaging, providing a comprehensive view of HCC (Hepatocellular Carcinoma) tumors. Targeted imaging agents enhance specificity, enabling early detection without invasive procedures. Nanotheranostics significantly contributes to non-invasive monitoring and staging, offering a precise understanding of tumor heterogeneity and facilitating flexible treatment plans. In therapeutics, Nanoparticle-Based Drug Delivery Systems overcome biological barriers, ensuring efficient and targeted drug delivery. Carefully considering factors like size, shape, stability, biocompatibility, release kinetics, and targeting capabilities in nanoplatform design, the review emphasizes passive targeting effects and explores active targeting strategies using ligands. Combination therapy emerges as a potent strategy in Nanotheranostics, with observed synergistic effects in various drug combinations. Integration of immunotherapies like Nivolumab and Pembrolizumab with conventional drugs showcases promising results, with the STRIDE regimen and atezolizumab-bevacizumab becoming front-line standards. Nanotheranostics facilitates combination therapy, enhancing outcomes by addressing the complexities of HCC (Hepatocellular Carcinoma). Nanotheranostics represents a paradigm shift in HCC management, offering advanced diagnostic capabilities, precise monitoring, and innovative therapeutic interventions. Its ability to integrate multiple approaches within a single nanoplatform holds promise for improving patient outcomes in the challenging HCC landscape. This review underscores the urgent need for continued research and development in Nanotheranostics to harness its full potential in tackling Hepatocellular Carcinoma.