Engineered Microbubbles for Breast Cancer Imaging and Therapy: From Material Innovation to Clinical Translation

Breast cancer remains a major global health concern, demanding advancements in the detection and treatment modalities. Conventional methods like radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery, etc., while effective, have inherent limitations. Recent advancements in biomaterials have introduced microbubble-assisted ultrasound imaging and therapy as a promising alternative, offering portable, real-time imaging with targeted applications. There is a substantial amount of literature on ultrasound contrast agents and their engineered counterparts for generating differential contrast and possessing targeted therapeutic capabilities in breast cancer management through precise control of their material and structural properties. However, a comprehensive review of recent advancements in this field is lacking. This review delves into the design and application of microbubble-based ultrasound contrast agents for breast cancer diagnosis and therapy by summarizing studies over the last five years (2019–2024). Additionally, nanobubbles, phase-changing nanodroplets, and other emerging ultrasound contrast agents, having properties and utility similar to those of microbubbles, are discussed. We provide a detailed examination of the architecture and fabrication of contrast agents, elucidating the mechanisms of their interaction with breast tissue. We have methodologically reviewed preclinical studies and clinical trials highlighting the efficacy of microbubbles and their adjuvant structures in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. This interdisciplinary review provides a compendium for researchers, scientists, and clinicians aiming to advance the field of breast cancer theranostics through innovative, material-driven solutions.