Nanotherapeutics for enhanced treatments for ovarian cancer: a comprehensive minireview.

Abstract

As one of the most lethal gynecological malignancies, ovarian cancer (OC) significantly impacts the health and quality of life of women globally. Currently, surgical intervention and chemotherapy remain the primary clinical treatment modalities for OC. With ongoing advancements in the understanding of molecular mechanisms, various therapeutic strategies such as poly-ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) treatment, immunotherapy, and combination therapies have also been introduced into clinical practice. However, significant challenges, such as systemic adverse effects, high recurrence rates, and the development of drug resistance, greatly limit their efficacy. To overcome these limitations, nanotherapeutics have emerged as promising multifunctional drug delivery systems for both the diagnosis and treatment of OC over the past few decades, owing to their ability to specifically target malignant tissues and enable controlled drug release. In this paper, we first review the tumor-targeting mechanisms of nanoparticles, which can guide researchers in designing suitable and effective nanomedicines with translational potential. We subsequently provide a detailed overview of several representative nanotherapeutic approaches used in the treatment of OC, including their roles in enhancing chemotherapy, PARPi therapy, immunotherapy, light- or ultrasound-mediated therapies, and various combination strategies. Finally, we discuss future perspectives and potential directions for nanotherapeutics in advancing personalized and targeted treatment of OC.