Targeting prostate tumour and its stroma by nanoparticles.

Abstract

The stroma plays a pivotal role in the development of prostate tumours. The tumour stroma includes different immune and stromal cells. Stromal cells can include fibroblasts, activated fibroblasts, endothelial cells, stem cells, etc. Immune system cells also consist of different subsets of T cells, B cells, macrophages and myeloid cells. Targeting different cells and their expressed or released molecules and genes in the tumour stroma has been proposed as an intriguing strategy for remodelling stroma and repressing prostate cancer (PCa) growth. Leveraging nanotechnology, researchers have developed innovative strategies to target these components. This review examines the latest progress in nanoparticle-based therapies specifically designed to interact with the prostate tumour stroma. We overview the functionalisation and targeting mechanisms of various nanoparticles, including organic and inorganic nanoparticles, highlighting their ability to specifically target stromal elements such as fibroblasts, extracellular matrix (ECM) and immune cells in PCa. Furthermore, we evaluate the synergistic potential of combining nanoparticle-based targeting with other therapies such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy and photothermal and photodynamic therapies.