Nanoparticles for Targeted Drug Delivery to Cancer Stem Cells: A Review of Recent Advances

Navigating the neurological frontier: Macromolecular marvels in overcoming blood-brain barrier challenges for advanced drug delivery

The blood-brain interface poses formidable obstacles in addressing neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's, Multiple Sclerosis, brain cancers, and cerebrovascular accidents. Serving as a safeguard against potential threats in the blood, this barrier hinders direct drug delivery to affected cells, necessitating specialized transport mechanisms. Within the realm of nanotechnology, the creation of nanoscale carriers, including macromolecules such as polymers, lipids, and metallic nanoparticles, is gaining prominence. These carriers, tailored in diverse forms and sizes and enriched with specific functional groups for enhanced penetration and targeting, are capturing growing interest. This revised abstract explores the macromolecular dimension in understanding how nanoparticles interact with the blood-brain barrier. It re-evaluates the structure and function of the blood-brain barrier, highlighting macromolecular nanocarriers utilized in drug delivery to the brain. The discussion delves into the intricate pathways through which drugs navigate the blood-brain barrier, emphasizing the distinctive attributes of macromolecular nanocarriers. Additionally, it explores recent innovations in nanotechnology and unconventional approaches to drug delivery. Ultimately, the paper addresses the intricacies and considerations in developing macromolecular-based nanomedicines for the brain, aiming to advance the creation and evolution of nanomedicines for neurological ailments.

Chitosan- and hyaluronic acid-based nanoarchitectures in phototherapy: Combination cancer chemotherapy, immunotherapy and gene therapy

Cancer phototherapy has been introduced as a new potential modality for tumor suppression. However, the efficacy of phototherapy has been limited due to a lack of targeted delivery of photosensitizers. Therefore, the application of biocompatible and multifunctional nanoparticles in phototherapy is appreciated. Chitosan (CS) as a cationic polymer and hyaluronic acid (HA) as a CD44-targeting agent are two widely utilized polymers in nanoparticle synthesis and functionalization. The current review focuses on the application of HA and CS nanostructures in cancer phototherapy. These nanocarriers can be used in phototherapy to induce hyperthermia and singlet oxygen generation for tumor ablation. CS and HA can be used for the synthesis of nanostructures, or they can functionalize other kinds of nanostructures used for phototherapy, such as gold nanorods. The HA and CS nanostructures can combine chemotherapy or immunotherapy with phototherapy to augment tumor suppression. Moreover, the CS nanostructures can be functionalized with HA for specific cancer phototherapy. The CS and HA nanostructures promote the cellular uptake of genes and photosensitizers to facilitate gene therapy and phototherapy. Such nanostructures specifically stimulate phototherapy at the tumor site, with particle toxic impacts on normal cells. Moreover, CS and HA nanostructures demonstrate high biocompatibility for further clinical applications.

Nanoliposomes as nonviral vectors in cancer gene therapy

Nonviral vectors, such as liposomes, offer potential for targeted gene delivery in cancer therapy. Liposomes, composed of phospholipid vesicles, have demonstrated efficacy as nanocarriers for genetic tools, addressing the limitations of off-targeting and degradation commonly associated with traditional gene therapy approaches. Due to their biocompatibility, stability, and tunable physicochemical properties, they offer potential in overcoming the challenges associated with gene therapy, such as low transfection efficiency and poor stability in biological fluids. Despite these advancements, there remains a gap in understanding the optimal utilization of nanoliposomes for enhanced gene delivery in cancer treatment. This review delves into the present state of nanoliposomes as carriers for genetic tools in cancer therapy, sheds light on their potential to safeguard genetic payloads and facilitate cell internalization alongside the evolution of smart nanocarriers for targeted delivery. The challenges linked to their biocompatibility and the factors that restrict their effectiveness in gene delivery are also discussed along with exploring the potential of nanoliposomes in cancer gene therapy strategies by analyzing recent advancements and offering future directions.

A nanocarrier system based on CQDs for efficient mitoxantrone drug delivery

Cancer is the second most fatal disease among women. In recent years, utilizing strategies based on carbon quantum dots (CQDs) as targeted drug delivery systems has had a significant impact on advancing and improving cancer treatment. This study is focused on the development of a nanocarrier, based on CQDs, for improving the therapeutic efficiency of mitoxantrone (MTX). Hence, the N-doped CQDs were synthesized by a hydrothermal method. Following its purification, MTX was loaded to the CQD, resulting in an increase in the size from 36.78 ± 0.9 nm to 157.8 ± 12.18 nm, with an ideal drug entrapment efficiency of 97 %. Drug release investigation showed a pH-dependent improvement, from 8 % at pH 7.4 to 11 % at pH 5.2 after 48 h. Based on the Methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) results after 5 h of treatment on MCF-7 breast cancer cells, the N-doped CQD showed no significant effect on the cancer cells, whereas a half maximal Inhibitory Concentration (IC50) was achieved with the N-doped CQD-MTX complex at a concentration between 0.5 to 0.8 μM. Therefore, the newly developed drug delivery complex was capable of providing a rather identical influence on MCF-7 cells, as the free MTX, however, improving the pharmacokinetic of the drug by its controlled and on-target drug release, due to an alteration in distribution and absorption parameters.

ExoDS: a versatile exosome-based drug delivery platform to target cancer cells and cancer stem cells

Chemotherapy drugs like doxorubicin (Dox) are widely used in middle-income countries around the world to treat various types of cancers, including breast cancer. Although they are toxic, they are still widely used to treat cancer. Delivering chemotherapy drugs directly to cancer cells to reduce side effects remains a challenge. Moreover, modern research gave rise to cancer stem cell theory, which implicated cancer stem cells in tumor initiation, progression, and relapse. This makes it imperative to target cancer stem cells to achieve complete remission. Our work highlights the development of an exosome-based targeted drug delivery vehicle. These exosomes were isolated from mature dendritic cells (mDCs) and encapsulated with doxorubicin (ExoDS). Our results showed that ExoDS specifically targeted breast cancer cells and breast cancer stem cells. Further analysis revealed that ExoDS did not induce any significant apoptosis in healthy mammary cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from healthy individuals and breast cancer patients. ExoDS was also found to target circulating tumor cells (CTCs) isolated from patient blood. ExoDS also showed equal efficiency compared to free doxorubicin in vivo. We also observed that ExoDS reduced the expression of cancer stem cell markers in murine tumor tissues. Altogether, this work provides novel insights into how mDC-derived exosomes can be used to specifically target cancer cells and cancer stem cells.

Nanomaterials in crossroad of autophagy control in human cancers: Amplification of cell death mechanisms

Cancer is the result of genetic abnormalities that cause normal cells to grow into neoplastic cells. Cancer is characterized by several distinct features, such as uncontrolled cell growth, extensive spreading to other parts of the body, and the ability to resist treatment. The scientists have stressed the development of nanostructures as novel therapeutic options in suppressing cancer, in response to the emergence of resistance to standard medicines. One of the specific mechanisms with dysregulation during cancer is autophagy. Nanomaterials have the ability to specifically carry medications and genes, and they can also enhance the responsiveness of tumor cells to standard therapy while promoting drug sensitivity. The primary mechanism in this process relies on autophagosomes and their fusion with lysosomes to break down the components of the cytoplasm. While autophagy was initially described as a form of cellular demise, it has been demonstrated to play a crucial role in controlling metastasis, proliferation, and treatment resistance in human malignancies. The pharmacokinetic profile of autophagy modulators is poor, despite their development for use in cancer therapy. Consequently, nanoparticles have been developed for the purpose of delivering medications and autophagy modulators selectively and specifically to the cancer process. Furthermore, several categories of nanoparticles have demonstrated the ability to regulate autophagy, which plays a crucial role in defining the biological characteristics and response to therapy of tumor cells.

Multiomics Analysis of the PHLDA Gene Family in Different Cancers and Their Clinical Prognostic Value

The PHLDA (pleckstrin homology-like domain family) gene family is popularly known as a potential biomarker for cancer identification, and members of the PHLDA family have become considered potentially viable targets for cancer treatments. The PHLDA gene family consists of PHLDA1, PHLDA2, and PHLDA3. The predictive significance of PHLDA genes in cancer remains unclear. To determine the role of pleckstrin as a prognostic biomarker in human cancers, we conducted a systematic multiomics investigation. Through various survival analyses, pleckstrin expression was evaluated, and their predictive significance in human tumors was discovered using a variety of online platforms. By analyzing the protein-protein interactions, we also chose a collection of well-known functional protein partners for pleckstrin. Investigations were also carried out on the relationship between pleckstrins and other cancers regarding mutations and copy number alterations. The cumulative impact of pleckstrin and their associated genes on various cancers, Gene Ontology (GO), and pathway analyses were used for their evaluation. Thus, the expression profiles of PHLDA family members and their prognosis in various cancers may be revealed by this study. During this multiomics analysis, we found that among the PHLDA family, PHLDA1 may be a therapeutic target for several cancers, including kidney, colon, and brain cancer, while PHLDA2 can be a therapeutic target for cancers of the colon, esophagus, and pancreas. Additionally, PHLDA3 may be a useful therapeutic target for ovarian, renal, and gastric cancer.

T Cell and Natural Killer Cell Membrane-Camouflaged Nanoparticles for Cancer and Viral Therapies

Extensive research has been conducted on the application of nanoparticles in the treatment of cancer and infectious diseases. Due to their exceptional characteristics and flexible structure, they are classified as highly efficient drug delivery systems, ensuring both safety and targeted delivery. Nevertheless, nanoparticles still encounter obstacles, such as biological instability, absence of selectivity, recognition as unfamiliar elements, and quick elimination, which restrict their remedial capacity. To surmount these drawbacks, biomimetic nanotechnology has been developed that utilizes T cell and natural killer (NK) cell membrane-encased nanoparticles as sophisticated methods of administering drugs. These nanoparticles can extend the duration of drug circulation and avoid immune system clearance. During the membrane extraction and coating procedure, the surface proteins of immunological cells are transferred to the biomimetic nanoparticles. Such proteins present on the surface of cells confer several benefits to nanoparticles, including prolonged circulation, enhanced targeting, controlled release, specific cellular contact, and reduced in vivo toxicity. This review focuses on biomimetic nanosystems that are derived from the membranes of T cells and NK cells and their comprehensive extraction procedure, manufacture, and applications in cancer treatment and viral infections. Furthermore, potential applications, prospects, and existing challenges in their medical implementation are highlighted.

Metal-Organic Frameworks for Cisplatin Delivery to Cancer Cells: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are utilized as nanocarriers to enhance the efficiency of chemotherapy drugs, including cisplatin, which exhibit limitations such as side effects and resistance mechanisms. To evaluate the role of MOFs, we employed a molecular dynamics simulation, which, unlike other experiments, is cost-effective, less dangerous, and provides accurate results. Furthermore, we conducted molecular docking simulations to understand the interaction between cisplatin and MOF, as well as their internal interactions and how they bind to each other. Cisplatin and MOF molecules were parametrized using the Avogadro software and x2top command in GROMACS 5.1.2 and optimized by CP2K software; the Charmm-GUI site parametrized the cell cancer membrane. Three molecular dynamics simulations were conducted in four stages at various pHs, followed by simulated umbrella sampling. The simulations analyzed the pH responsiveness, total energy, Gibbs free energy, gyration radius, radial distribution function (RDF), solvent accessible surface area, and nanoparticles' toxicity. Results demonstrated that a neutral pH level (7.4) has greater adsorption and interaction compared to acidic pH values (6.4 and 5.4) because it displays the highest total energy (-17.1 kJ/mol), the highest RDF value (6.66), and the shortest distance (0.51 nm). Furthermore, the combination of cisplatin and MOFs displayed increased penetration compared to that of their individual forms. This study highlights the suitability of MOFs as nanocarriers and identifies the optimal pH values for desirable outcomes. Thus, it provides future studies with appropriate data to conduct their experiments in assessing MOFs.

Nanomaterials-assisted photothermal therapy for breast cancer: State-of-the-art advances and future perspectives

Breast cancer (BC) remains an enigmatic fatal modality ubiquitously prevalent in different parts of the world. Contemporary medicines face severe challenges in remediating and healing breast cancer. Due to its spatial specificity and nominal invasive therapeutic regime, photothermal therapy (PTT) has attracted much scientific attention down the lane. PTT utilizes a near-infrared (NIR) light source to irradiate the tumor target intravenously or non-invasively, which is converted into heat energy over an optical fibre. Dynamic progress in nanomaterial synthesis was achieved with specialized visual, physicochemical, biological, and pharmacological features to make up for the inadequacies and expand the horizon of PTT. Numerous nanomaterials have substantial NIR absorption and can function as efficient photothermal transducers. It is achievable to limit the wavelength range of an absorbance peak for specific nanomaterials by manipulating their synthesis, enhancing the precision and quality of PTT. Along the same lines, various nanomaterials are conjugated with a wide range of surface-modifying chemicals, including polymers and antibodies, which may modify the persistence of the nanomaterial and diminish toxicity concerns. In this article, we tend to put forth specific insights and fundamental conceptualizations on pre-existing PTT and its advances upon conjugation with different biocompatible nanomaterials working in synergy to combat breast cancer, encompassing several strategies like immunotherapy, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and radiotherapy coupled with PTT. Additionally, the role or mechanisms of nanoparticles, as well as possible alternatives to PTT, are summarized as a distinctive integral aspect in this article.

Nanostructures for site-specific delivery of oxaliplatin cancer therapy: Versatile nanoplatforms in synergistic cancer therapy

As a clinically approved treatment strategy, chemotherapy-mediated tumor suppression has been compromised, and in spite of introducing various kinds of anticancer drugs, cancer eradication with chemotherapy is still impossible. Chemotherapy drugs have been beneficial in improving the prognosis of cancer patients, but after resistance emerged, their potential disappeared. Oxaliplatin (OXA) efficacy in tumor suppression has been compromised by resistance. Due to the dysregulation of pathways and mechanisms in OXA resistance, it is suggested to develop novel strategies for overcoming drug resistance. The targeted delivery of OXA by nanostructures is described here. The targeted delivery of OXA in cancer can be mediated by polymeric, metal, lipid and carbon nanostructures. The advantageous of these nanocarriers is that they enhance the accumulation of OXA in tumor and promote its cytotoxicity. Moreover, (nano)platforms mediate the co-delivery of OXA with drugs and genes in synergistic cancer therapy, overcoming OXA resistance and improving insights in cancer patient treatment in the future. Moreover, smart nanostructures, including pH-, redox-, light-, and thermo-sensitive nanostructures, have been designed for OXA delivery and cancer therapy. The application of nanoparticle-mediated phototherapy can increase OXA's potential in cancer suppression. All of these subjects and their clinical implications are discussed in the current review.

An updated landscape on nanotechnology-based drug delivery, immunotherapy, vaccinations, imaging, and biomarker detections for cancers: recent trends and future directions with clinical success

The recent development of nanotechnology-based formulations improved the diagnostics and therapies for various diseases including cancer where lack of specificity, high cytotoxicity with various side effects, poor biocompatibility, and increasing cases of multi-drug resistance are the major limitations of existing chemotherapy. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery enhances the stability and bioavailability of many drugs, thereby increasing tissue penetration and targeted delivery with improved efficacy against the tumour cells. Easy surface functionalization and encapsulation properties allow various antigens and tumour cell lysates to be delivered in the form of nanovaccines with improved immune response. The nanoparticles (NPs) due to their smaller size and associated optical, physical, and mechanical properties have evolved as biosensors with high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of various markers including nucleic acids, protein/antigens, small metabolites, etc. This review gives, initially, a concise update on drug delivery using different nanoscale platforms like liposomes, dendrimers, polymeric & various metallic NPs, hydrogels, microneedles, nanofibres, nanoemulsions, etc. Drug delivery with recent technologies like quantum dots (QDs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), protein, and upconverting NPs was updated, thereafter. We also summarized the recent progress in vaccination strategy, immunotherapy involving immune checkpoint inhibitors, and biomarker detection for various cancers based on nanoplatforms. At last, we gave a detailed picture of the current nanomedicines in clinical trials and their possible success along with the existing approved ones. In short, this review provides an updated complete landscape of applications of wide NP-based drug delivery, vaccinations, immunotherapy, biomarker detection & imaging for various cancers with a predicted future of nanomedicines that are in clinical trials.

Recent progress in the development of nanomaterials targeting multiple cancer metabolic pathways: a review of mechanistic approaches for cancer treatment

Cancer is a very heterogeneous disease, and uncontrolled cell division is the main characteristic of cancer. Cancerous cells need a high nutrition intake to enable aberrant growth and survival. To do so, cancer cells modify metabolic pathways to produce energy and anabolic precursors and preserve redox balance. Due to the importance of metabolic pathways in tumor growth and malignant transformation, metabolic pathways have also been given promising perspectives for cancer treatment, providing more effective treatment strategies, and target-specific with minimum side effects. Metabolism-based therapeutic nanomaterials for targeted cancer treatment are a promising option. Numerous types of nanoparticles (NPs) are employed in the research and analysis of various cancer therapies. The current review focuses on cutting-edge strategies and current cancer therapy methods based on nanomaterials that target various cancer metabolisms. Additionally, it highlighted the primacy of NPs-based cancer therapies over traditional ones, the challenges, and the future potential.

Molecular targets, therapeutic agents and multitasking nanoparticles to deal with cancer stem cells: A narrative review

There is increasing evidence that malignant tumors are initiated and maintained by a sub-population of tumor cells that have similar biological properties to normal adult stem cells. This very small population of Cancer Stem Cells (CSC) comprises tumor initiating cells responsible for cancer recurrence, drug resistance and metastasis. Conventional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, in addition to being potentially toxic and non-specific, may paradoxically increase the population, spread and survival of CSCs. Next-generation sequencing and omics technologies are increasing our understanding of the pathways and factors involved in the development of CSCs, and can help to discover new therapeutic targets against CSCs. In addition, recent advances in nanomedicine have provided hope for the development of optimal specific therapies to eradicate CSCs. Moreover, the use of artificial intelligence and nano-informatics can elucidate new drug targets, and help to design drugs and nanoparticles (NPs) to deal with CSCs. In this review, we first summarize the properties of CSCs and describe the signaling pathways and molecular characteristics responsible for the emergence and survival of CSCs. Also, the location of CSCs within the tumor and the effect of host factors on the creation and maintenance of CSCs are discussed. Newly discovered molecular targets involved in cancer stemness and some novel therapeutic compounds to combat CSCs are highlighted. The optimum properties of anti-CSC NPs, including blood circulation and stability, tumor accumulation and penetration, cellular internalization, drug release, endosomal escape, and aptamers designed for specific targeting of CSCs are covered. Finally, some recent smart NPs designed for therapeutic and theranostic purposes to overcome CSCs are discussed.

Exploring the redox potential induced by low-intensity focused ultrasound on tumor masses

Cancer is still a major health problem worldwide despite huge efforts being spent on its biomedical research. Beyond the mainstream therapeutic interventions (i.e., surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiotherapy), further significant progresses in anticancer therapy could rely on the development of novel treatment paradigms. To this end, one emerging approach consists in the use of non-thermal low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) for conditioning cancer molecules and/or cancer-targeted compounds, thereby leading to cancer cell death with least side-effects. Cellular redox homeostasis manifested as the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during energy metabolism as well as the antioxidant capacity is interwoven to the composition, size and anatomical location of the tumor masses. The higher content of "oxide free radicals" in cancers makes them vulnerable to disruption of redox homeostasis than in the healthy cells and therefore, one of the best options for preferentially eradicating them is increasing their oxidative stress, excessively. A little is known about the modulation of cellular redox homeostasis by LIFU, and so it will be of great interest and utility to understand the effects of LIFU on the energy metabolism of cancer cells. This review is intended to improve our knowledge on the effect of LIFU on cancer cells with particular reference to its redox metabolism for ultrasound-based therapies. Thereby, it could pave the way for exploring novel methodologies and designing combined anti-cancer therapies, especially, for faster and safer eradication of drug resistant and metastasizing solid tumors.

Tumor microenvironment-induced tumor cell plasticity: relationship with hypoxic stress and impact on tumor resistance

The role of tumor interaction with stromal components during carcinogenesis is crucial for the design of efficient cancer treatment approaches. It is widely admitted that tumor hypoxic stress is associated with tumor aggressiveness and thus impacts susceptibility and resistance to different types of treatments. Notable biological processes that hypoxia functions in include its regulation of tumor heterogeneity and plasticity. While hypoxia has been reported as a major player in tumor survival and dissemination regulation, the significance of hypoxia inducible factors in cancer stem cell development remains poorly understood. Several reports indicate that the emergence of cancer stem cells in addition to their phenotype and function within a hypoxic tumor microenvironment impacts cancer progression. In this respect, evidence showed that cancer stem cells are key elements of intratumoral heterogeneity and more importantly are responsible for tumor relapse and escape to treatments. This paper briefly reviews our current knowledge of the interaction between tumor hypoxic stress and its role in stemness acquisition and maintenance. Our review extensively covers the influence of hypoxia on the formation and maintenance of cancer stem cells and discusses the potential of targeting hypoxia-induced alterations in the expression and function of the so far known stem cell markers in cancer therapy approaches. We believe that a better and integrated understanding of the effect of hypoxia on stemness during carcinogenesis might lead to new strategies for exploiting hypoxia-associated pathways and their targeting in the clinical setting in order to overcome resistance mechanisms. More importantly, at the present time, efforts are oriented towards the design of innovative therapeutical approaches that specifically target cancer stem cells.

Natural Polymeric Nanobiocomposites for Anti-Cancer Drug Delivery Therapeutics: A Recent Update

Cancer is one of the most common lethal diseases and the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Effective cancer treatment is a global problem, and subsequent advancements in nanomedicine are useful as substitute management for anti-cancer agents. Nanotechnology, which is gaining popularity, enables fast-expanding delivery methods in science for curing diseases in a site-specific approach, utilizing natural bioactive substances because several studies have established that natural plant-based bioactive compounds can improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Bioactive, in combination with nanotechnology, is an exceptionally alluring and recent development in the fight against cancer. Along with their nutritional advantages, natural bioactive chemicals may be used as chemotherapeutic medications to manage cancer. Alginate, starch, xanthan gum, pectin, guar gum, hyaluronic acid, gelatin, albumin, collagen, cellulose, chitosan, and other biopolymers have been employed successfully in the delivery of medicinal products to particular sites. Due to their biodegradability, natural polymeric nanobiocomposites have garnered much interest in developing novel anti-cancer drug delivery methods. There are several techniques to create biopolymer-based nanoparticle systems. However, these systems must be created in an affordable and environmentally sustainable way to be more readily available, selective, and less hazardous to increase treatment effectiveness. Thus, an extensive comprehension of the various facets and recent developments in natural polymeric nanobiocomposites utilized to deliver anti-cancer drugs is imperative. The present article provides an overview of the latest research and developments in natural polymeric nanobiocomposites, particularly emphasizing their applications in the controlled and targeted delivery of anti-cancer drugs.

Eco-friendly chitosan-based nanostructures in diabetes mellitus therapy: Promising bioplatforms with versatile therapeutic perspectives

Nature-derived polymers, or biopolymers, are among the most employed materials for the development of nanocarriers. Chitosan (CS) is derived from the acetylation of chitin, and this biopolymer displays features such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, low toxicity, and ease of modification. CS-based nano-scale delivery systems have been demonstrated to be promising carriers for drug and gene delivery, and they can provide site-specific delivery of cargo. Owing to the high biocompatibility of CS-based nanocarriers, they can be used in the future in clinical trials. On the other hand, diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease that can develop due to a lack of insulin secretion or insulin sensitivity. Recently, CS-based nanocarriers have been extensively applied for DM therapy. Oral delivery of insulin is the most common use of CS nanoparticles in DM therapy, and they improve the pharmacological bioavailability of insulin. Moreover, CS-based nanostructures with mucoadhesive features can improve oral bioavailability of insulin. CS-based hydrogels have been developed for the sustained release of drugs and the treatment of DM complications such as wound healing. Furthermore, CS-based nanoparticles can mediate delivery of phytochemicals and other therapeutic agents in DM therapy, and they are promising compounds for the treatment of DM complications, including nephropathy, neuropathy, and cardiovascular diseases, among others. The surface modification of nanostructures with CS can improve their properties in terms of drug delivery and release, biocompatibility, and others, causing high attention to these nanocarriers in DM therapy.

Doxorubicin-loaded micelles in tumor cell-specific chemotherapy

Nanomedicine is a field that combines biology and engineering to improve disease treatment, particularly in cancer therapy. One of the promising techniques utilized in this area is the use of micelles, which are nanoscale delivery systems that are known for their simple preparation, high biocompatibility, small particle size, and the ability to be functionalized. A commonly employed chemotherapy drug, Doxorubicin (DOX), is an effective inhibitor of topoisomerase II that prevents DNA replication in cancer cells. However, its efficacy is frequently limited by resistance resulting from various factors, including increased activity of drug efflux transporters, heightened oncogenic factors, and lack of targeted delivery. This review aims to highlight the potential of micelles as new nanocarriers for delivering DOX and to examine the challenges involved with employing chemotherapy to treat cancer. Micelles that respond to changes in pH, redox, and light are known as stimuli-responsive micelles, which can improve the targeted delivery of DOX and its cytotoxicity by facilitating its uptake in tumor cells. Additionally, micelles can be utilized to administer a combination of DOX and other drugs and genes to overcome drug resistance mechanisms and improve tumor suppression. Furthermore, micelles can be used in phototherapy, both photodynamic and photothermal, to promote cell death and increase DOX sensitivity in human cancers. Finally, the alteration of micelle surfaces with ligands can further enhance their targeted delivery for cancer suppression.

Engineered Polyethylene Glycol-Coated Zinc Ferrite Nanoparticles as a Novel Magnetic Resonance Imaging Contrast Agent

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was utilized to functionalize the surface of zinc ferrite nanoparticles (NPs) synthesized by the hydrothermal process in order to prevent aggregation and improve the biocompatibility of the NPs for the proposed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) agent. Various spectroscopy techniques were used to examine the NPs' structure, size, morphology, and magnetic properties. The NPs had a cubic spinel structure with an average size of 8 nm. The formations of the spinel ferrite and the PEG coating band at the ranges of 300-600 and 800-2000 cm^-1, respectively, were validated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The NPs were spherical in shape, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy with mapping confirmed the presence of zinc, iron, and oxygen in the samples. The results of high-resolution transmission electron microscopy revealed an average size of 14 nm and increased stability after PEG coating. The decrease in zeta potential from -24.5 to -36.5 mV confirmed the PEG coating on the surface of the NPs. A high saturation magnetization of ∼50 emu/g, measured by vibration sample magnetometer, indicated the magnetic potential of NPs for biomedical applications. An MTT assay was used to examine the cytotoxicity and viability of human normal skin cells (HSF 1184) exposed to zinc ferrite and PEG@Zn ferrite NPs at various concentrations. After 24 h of treatment, negligible cytotoxicity of PEG-coated NPs was observed at high concentrations. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suggested that PEG@Zn ferrite NPs are a unique and perfectly suited contrast agent for T₂-weighted MRI and can successfully enhance the image contrast.

Chitosan-based nanoscale delivery systems in hepatocellular carcinoma: Versatile bio-platform with theranostic application

The field of nanomedicine has provided a fresh approach to cancer treatment by addressing the limitations of current therapies and offering new perspectives on enhancing patients' prognoses and chances of survival. Chitosan (CS) is isolated from chitin that has been extensively utilized for surface modification and coating of nanocarriers to improve their biocompatibility, cytotoxicity against tumor cells, and stability. HCC is a prevalent kind of liver tumor that cannot be adequately treated with surgical resection in its advanced stages. Furthermore, the development of resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy has caused treatment failure. The targeted delivery of drugs and genes can be mediated by nanostructures in treatment of HCC. The current review focuses on the function of CS-based nanostructures in HCC therapy and discusses the newest advances of nanoparticle-mediated treatment of HCC. Nanostructures based on CS have the capacity to escalate the pharmacokinetic profile of both natural and synthetic drugs, thus improving the effectiveness of HCC therapy. Some experiments have displayed that CS nanoparticles can be deployed to co-deliver drugs to disrupt tumorigenesis in a synergistic way. Moreover, the cationic nature of CS makes it a favorable nanocarrier for delivery of genes and plasmids. The use of CS-based nanostructures can be harnessed for phototherapy. Additionally, the incur poration of ligands including arginylglycylaspartic acid (RGD) into CS can elevate the targeted delivery of drugs to HCC cells. Interestingly, smart CS-based nanostructures, including ROS- and pH-sensitive nanoparticles, have been designed to provide cargo release at the tumor site and enhance the potential for HCC suppression.

Gold nanostructure-mediated delivery of anticancer agents: Biomedical applications, reversing drug resistance, and stimuli-responsive nanocarriers

The application of nanoarchitectures in cancer therapy seems to be beneficial for the delivery of antitumor drugs. In recent years, attempts have been made to reverse drug resistance, one of the factors threatening the lives of cancer patients worldwide. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) are metal nanostructures with a variety of advantageous properties, such as tunable size and shape, continuous release of chemicals, and simple surface modification. This review focuses on the application of GNPs for the delivery of chemotherapy agents in cancer therapy. Utilizing GNPs results in targeted delivery and increased intracellular accumulation. Besides, GNPs can provide a platform for the co-delivery of anticancer agents and genetic tools with chemotherapeutic compounds to exert a synergistic impact. Furthermore, GNPs can promote oxidative damage and apoptosis by triggering chemosensitivity. Due to their capacity for providing photothermal therapy, GNPs can enhance the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic agents against tumor cells. The pH-, redox-, and light-responsive GNPs are beneficial for drug release at the tumor site. For the selective targeting of cancer cells, surface modification of GNPs with ligands has been performed. In addition to improving cytotoxicity, GNPs can prevent the development of drug resistance in tumor cells by facilitating prolonged release and loading low concentrations of chemotherapeutics while maintaining their high antitumor activity. As described in this study, the clinical use of chemotherapeutic drug-loaded GNPs is contingent on enhancing their biocompatibility.

Self-Renewal and Pluripotency in Osteosarcoma Stem Cells' Chemoresistance: Notch, Hedgehog, and Wnt/β-Catenin Interplay with Embryonic Markers

Osteosarcoma is a highly malignant bone tumor derived from mesenchymal cells that contains self-renewing cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are responsible for tumor progression and chemotherapy resistance. Understanding the signaling pathways that regulate CSC self-renewal and survival is crucial for developing effective therapies. The Notch, Hedgehog, and Wnt/β-Catenin developmental pathways, which are essential for self-renewal and differentiation of normal stem cells, have been identified as important regulators of osteosarcoma CSCs and also in the resistance to anticancer therapies. Targeting these pathways and their interactions with embryonic markers and the tumor microenvironment may be a promising therapeutic strategy to overcome chemoresistance and improve the prognosis for osteosarcoma patients. This review focuses on the role of Notch, Hedgehog, and Wnt/β-Catenin signaling in regulating CSC self-renewal, pluripotency, and chemoresistance, and their potential as targets for anti-cancer therapies. We also discuss the relevance of embryonic markers, including SOX-2, Oct-4, NANOG, and KLF4, in osteosarcoma CSCs and their association with the aforementioned signaling pathways in overcoming drug resistance.

Cancer stem cell-mediated drug resistance: A comprehensive gene expression profile analysis in breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy in women and a major public health concern. In the current report, differential expression of the breast cancer resistance promoting genes with a focus on breast cancer stem cell related elements as well as the correlation of their mRNAs with various clinicopathologic characteristics, including molecular subtypes, tumor grade/stage, and methylation status, have been investigated using METABRIC and TCGA datasets. To achieve this goal, we downloaded gene expression data of breast cancer patients from TCGA and METABRIC. Then, statistical analyses were used to assess the correlation between the expression levels of stem cell related drug resistant genes and methylation status, tumor grades, various molecular subtypes, and some cancer hallmark gene sets such as immune evasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis. According to the results of this study, a number of stem cell related drug resistant genes are deregulated in breast cancer patients. Furthermore, we observe negative correlations between methylation of resistance genes and mRNA expression. There is a significant difference in the expression of resistance-promoting genes between different molecular subtypes. As mRNA expression and DNA methylation are clearly related, DNA methylation might be a mechanism that regulates these genes in breast cancer cells. As indicated by the differential expression of resistance-promoting genes among various breast cancer molecular subtypes, these genes may function differently in different subtypes of breast cancer. In conclusion, significant deregulation of resistance-promoting factors indicates that these genes may play a significant role in the development of breast cancer.

Nanocarriers overcoming biological barriers induced by multidrug resistance of chemotherapeutics in 2D and 3D cancer models

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is currently a big challenge in cancer therapy and limits its success in several patients. Tumors use the MDR mechanisms to colonize the host and reduce the efficacy of chemotherapeutics that are injected as single agents or combinations. MDR mechanisms are responsible for inactivation of drugs and formbiological barriers in cancer like the drug efflux pumps, aberrant extracellular matrix, hypoxic areas, altered cell death mechanisms, etc. Nanocarriers have some potential to overcome these barriers and improve the efficacy of chemotherapeutics. In fact, they are versatile and can deliver natural and synthetic biomolecules, as well as RNAi/DNAi, thus providing a controlled release of drugs and a synergistic effect in tumor tissues. Biocompatible and safe multifunctional biopolymers, with or without specific targeting molecules, modify the surface and interface properties of nanocarriers. These modifications affect the interaction of nanocarriers with cellular models as well as the selection of suitable models for in vitro experiments. MDR cancer cells, and particularly their 2D and 3D models, in combination with anatomical and physiological structures of tumor tissues, can boost the design and preparation of nanomedicines for anticancer therapy. 2D and 3D cancer cell cultures are suitable models to study the interaction, internalization, and efficacy of nanocarriers, the mechanisms of MDR in cancer cells and tissues, and they are used to tailor a personalized medicine and improve the efficacy of anticancer treatment in patients. The description of molecular mechanisms and physio-pathological pathways of these models further allow the design of nanomedicine that can efficiently overcome biological barriers involved in MDR and test the activity of nanocarriers in 2D and 3D models of MDR cancer cells.

Biomimetic cell membrane-coated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles for biomedical applications

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) are commonly used for drug delivery because of their favored biocompatibility and suitability for sustained and controlled drug release. To prolong NP circulation time, enable target-specific drug delivery and overcome physiological barriers, NPs camouflaged in cell membranes have been developed and evaluated to improve drug delivery. Here, we discuss recent advances in cell membrane-coated PLGA NPs, their preparation methods, and their application to cancer therapy, management of inflammation, treatment of cardiovascular disease and control of infection. We address the current challenges and highlight future research directions needed for effective use of cell membrane-camouflaged NPs.

Nanoparticles for Drug and Gene Delivery in Pediatric Brain Tumors' Cancer Stem Cells: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives

Primary malignant brain tumors are the most common solid neoplasm in childhood. Despite recent advances, many children affected by aggressive or metastatic brain tumors still present poor prognosis, therefore the development of more effective therapies is urgent. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been discovered and isolated in both pediatric and adult patients with brain tumors (e.g., medulloblastoma, gliomas and ependymoma). CSCs are a small clonal population of cancer cells responsible for brain tumor initiation, maintenance and progression, displaying resistance to conventional anticancer therapies. CSCs are characterized by a specific repertoire of surface markers and intracellular specific pathways. These unique features of CSCs biology offer the opportunity to build therapeutic approaches to specifically target these cells in the complex tumor bulk. Treatment of pediatric brain tumors with classical chemotherapeutic regimen poses challenges both for tumor location and for the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Lastly, the application of chemotherapy to a developing brain is followed by long-term sequelae, especially on cognitive abilities. Novel avenues are emerging in the therapeutic panorama taking advantage of nanomedicine. In this review we will summarize nanoparticle-based approaches and the efficacy that NPs have intrinsically demonstrated and how they are also decorated by biomolecules. Furthermore, we propose novel cargoes together with recent advances in nanoparticle design/synthesis with the final aim to specifically target the insidious CSCs population in the tumor bulk.

Graphene oxide nanoarchitectures in cancer biology: Nano-modulators of autophagy and apoptosis

Nanotechnology is a growing field, with many potential biomedical applications of nanomedicine for the treatment of different diseases, particularly cancer, on the horizon. Graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles can act as carbon-based nanocarriers with advantages such as a large surface area, good mechanical strength, and the capacity for surface modification. These nanostructures have been extensively used in cancer therapy for drug and gene delivery, photothermal therapy, overcoming chemotherapy resistance, and for imaging procedures. In the current review, we focus on the biological functions of GO nanoparticles as regulators of apoptosis and autophagy, the two major forms of programmed cell death. GO nanoparticles can either induce or inhibit autophagy in cancer cells, depending on the conditions. By stimulating autophagy, GO nanocarriers can promote the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy. However, by impairing autophagy flux, GO nanoparticles can reduce cell survival and enhance inflammation. Similarly, GO nanomaterials can increase ROS production and induce DNA damage, thereby sensitizing cancer cells to apoptosis. In vitro and in vivo experiments have investigated whether GO nanomaterials show any toxicity in major body organs, such as the brain, liver, spleen, and heart. Molecular pathways, such as ATG, MAPK, JNK, and Akt, can be regulated by GO nanomaterials, leading to effects on autophagy and apoptosis. These topics are discussed in this review to shed some lights towards the biomedical potential of GO nanoparticles and their biocompatibility, paving the way for their future application in clinical trials.

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in hepatocellular carcinoma progression: Biological functions and new therapeutic targets

Liver is an important organ in body that performs vital functions such as detoxification. Liver is susceptible to development of cancers, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among them. 75-85% of liver cancer cases are related to HCC. Therefore, much attention has been directed towards understanding factors mediating HCC progression. LncRNAs are epigenetic factors with more than 200 nucleotides in length located in both nucleus and cytoplasm and they are promising candidates in cancer therapy. Directing studies towards understanding function of lncRNAs in HCC is of importance. LncRNAs regulate cell cycle progression and growth of HCC cells, and they can also induce/inhibit apoptosis in tumor cells. LncRNAs affect invasion and metastasis in HCC mainly by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mechanism. Revealing the association between lncRNAs and downstream signaling pathways in HCC is discussed in the current manuscript. Infectious diseases can affect lncRNA expression in mediating HCC development and then, altered expression level of lncRNA is associated with drug resistance and radio-resistance. Biomarker application of lncRNAs and their role in prognosis and diagnosis of HCC are also discussed to pave the way for treatment of HCC patients.

Upregulating HIF-1α to Boost the Survival of Neural Stem Cells via Functional Peptides-Complexed MRI-Visible Nanomedicine for Stroke Therapy

Neural stem cells (NSCs) transplantation has been considered as a promising strategy for the treatment of ischemic stroke. However, the therapeutic prospect is limited by the poor control over the survival, migration, and maturation of transplanted NSCs. Upregulating hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1α expression in stem cells can improve the survival and migration of NSCs grafted for stroke therapy. Functional peptide drugs, which could inhibit endogenous HIF-1α ubiquitination, might be used to effectively upregulate the HIF-1α expression in NSCs, thereby to improve the therapeutic effect in ischemia stroke. Herein, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-visible nanomedicine is developed to codeliver functional peptides and superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles into NSCs. This nanomedicine not only promotes the survival and migration ability of NSCs but also allows an in vivo tracking of transplanted NSCs with MRI. The results demonstrate the great potential of the functional peptides-complexed multifunctional nanomedicine in boosting the therapeutic effect of stem cell-based therapy in stroke.

Targeting cancer stem cells with polymer nanoparticles for gastrointestinal cancer treatment

Nanomaterials are developing rapidly in the medical field, bringing new hope for treating various refractory diseases. Among them, polymer nanomaterials, with their excellent properties, have been used to treat various diseases, such as malignant tumors, diabetes, and nervous system diseases. Gastrointestinal cancer is among the cancers with the highest morbidity and mortality worldwide. Cancer stem cells are believed to play an important role in the occurrence and development of tumors. This article summarizes the characteristics of gastrointestinal cancer stem cells and reviews the latest research progress in treating gastrointestinal malignant tumors using polymer nanoparticles to target cancer stem cells. In addition, the review article highlights the potential of polymer nanoparticles in targeting gastrointestinal cancer stem cells.

Cancer Stem Cells and the Tumor Microenvironment: Targeting the Critical Crosstalk through Nanocarrier Systems

The physiological state of the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a central role in cancer development due to multiple universal features that transcend heterogeneity and niche specifications, like promoting cancer progression and metastasis. As a result of their preponderant involvement in tumor growth and maintenance through several microsystemic alterations, including hypoxia, oxidative stress, and acidosis, TMEs make for ideal targets in both diagnostic and therapeutic ventures. Correspondingly, methodologies to target TMEs have been investigated this past decade as stratagems of significant potential in the genre of focused cancer treatment. Within targeted oncotherapy, nanomedical derivates-nanocarriers (NCs) especially-have emerged to present notable prospects in enhancing targeting specificity. Yet, one major issue in the application of NCs in microenvironmental directed therapy is that TMEs are too broad a spectrum of targeting possibilities for these carriers to be effectively employed. However, cancer stem cells (CSCs) might portend a solution to the above conundrum: aside from being quite heavily invested in tumorigenesis and therapeutic resistance, CSCs also show self-renewal and fluid clonogenic properties that often define specific TME niches. Further scrutiny of the relationship between CSCs and TMEs also points towards mechanisms that underly tumoral characteristics of metastasis, malignancy, and even resistance. This review summarizes recent advances in NC-enabled targeting of CSCs for more holistic strikes against TMEs and discusses both the current challenges that hinder the clinical application of these strategies as well as the avenues that can further CSC-targeting initiatives. Central role of CSCs in regulation of cellular components within the TME.

Biosensors and Drug Delivery in Oncotheranostics Using Inorganic Synthetic and Biogenic Magnetic Nanoparticles

Magnetic nanocarriers have attracted attention in translational oncology due to their ability to be employed both for tumor diagnostics and therapy. This review summarizes data on applications of synthetic and biogenic magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in oncological theranostics and related areas. The basics of both types of MNPs including synthesis approaches, structure, and physicochemical properties are discussed. The properties of synthetic MNPs and biogenic MNPs are compared with regard to their antitumor therapeutic efficiency, diagnostic potential, biocompatibility, and cellular toxicity. The comparative analysis demonstrates that both synthetic and biogenic MNPs could be efficiently used for cancer theranostics, including biosensorics and drug delivery. At the same time, reduced toxicity of biogenic particles was noted, which makes them advantageous for in vivo applications, such as drug delivery, or MRI imaging of tumors. Adaptability to surface modification based on natural biochemical processes is also noted, as well as good compatibility with tumor cells and proliferation in them. Advances in the bionanotechnology field should lead to the implementation of MNPs in clinical trials.

Role of prostate stem cells and treatment strategies in benign prostate hyperplasia

Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is a progressive disease with a direct correlation between incidence and age. Since the treatment and management of BPH involve harmful side effects and decreased quality of life for the patient, the primary focus of research should be to find better and longer-lasting therapeutic options. The mechanisms regulating prostate stem cells in development can be exploited to decrease prostate growth. BPH is defined as the overgrowth of the prostate, and BPH is often diagnosed when lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) of urine storage or voiding symptoms cause patients to seek treatment. While multiple factors are involved in the hyperplastic growth of the stromal and epithelial compartments of the prostate, the clonal proliferation of stem cells is considered one of the main reasons for BPH initiation and regrowth of the prostate after therapies for BPH fail. Several theories explain possible reasons for the involvement of stem cells in the development, progression, and pathogenesis of BPH. The aim of the current review is to discuss current literature on the fundamentals of prostate development and the role of stem cells in BPH. This review examines the rationale for the hypothesis that unregulated stem cell properties can lead to BPH and therapeutic targeting of stem cells may reduce treatment-related side effects and prevent the regrowth of the prostate.

Nano-Based Approved Pharmaceuticals for Cancer Treatment: Present and Future Challenges

Cancer is one of the main causes of death worldwide. To date, and despite the advances in conventional treatment options, therapy in cancer is still far from optimal due to the non-specific systemic biodistribution of antitumor agents. The inadequate drug concentrations at the tumor site led to an increased incidence of multiple drug resistance and the appearance of many severe undesirable side effects. Nanotechnology, through the development of nanoscale-based pharmaceuticals, has emerged to provide new and innovative drugs to overcome these limitations. In this review, we provide an overview of the approved nanomedicine for cancer treatment and the rationale behind their designs and applications. We also highlight the new approaches that are currently under investigation and the perspectives and challenges for nanopharmaceuticals, focusing on the tumor microenvironment and tumor disseminate cells as the most attractive and effective strategies for cancer treatments.

Novel Tumor-Targeting Nanoparticles for Cancer Treatment-A Review

Being one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, cancer represents an ongoing interdisciplinary challenge for the scientific community. As currently used treatments may face limitations in terms of both efficiency and adverse effects, continuous research has been directed towards overcoming existing challenges and finding safer specific alternatives. In particular, increasing interest has been gathered around integrating nanotechnology in cancer management and subsequentially developing various tumor-targeting nanoparticles for cancer applications. In this respect, the present paper briefly describes the most used cancer treatments in clinical practice to set a reference framework for recent research findings, further focusing on the novel developments in the field. More specifically, this review elaborates on the top recent studies concerning various nanomaterials (i.e., carbon-based, metal-based, liposomes, cubosomes, lipid-based, polymer-based, micelles, virus-based, exosomes, and cell membrane-coated nanomaterials) that show promising potential in different cancer applications.

The Promise of Nanotechnology in Personalized Medicine

Both personalized medicine and nanomedicine are new to medical practice. Nanomedicine is an application of the advances of nanotechnology in medicine and is being integrated into diagnostic and therapeutic tools to manage an array of medical conditions. On the other hand, personalized medicine, which is also referred to as precision medicine, is a novel concept that aims to individualize/customize therapeutic management based on the personal attributes of the patient to overcome blanket treatment that is only efficient in a subset of patients, leaving others with either ineffective treatment or treatment that results in significant toxicity. Novel nanomedicines have been employed in the treatment of several diseases, which can be adapted to each patient-specific case according to their genetic profiles. In this review, we discuss both areas and the intersection between the two emerging scientific domains. The review focuses on the current situation in personalized medicine, the advantages that can be offered by nanomedicine to personalized medicine, and the application of nanoconstructs in the diagnosis of genetic variability that can identify the right drug for the right patient. Finally, we touch upon the challenges in both fields towards the translation of nano-personalized medicine.

An Up-to-Date Review of Natural Nanoparticles for Cancer Management

Cancer represents one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, imposing an urgent need to develop more efficient treatment alternatives. In this respect, much attention has been drawn from conventional cancer treatments to more modern approaches, such as the use of nanotechnology. Extensive research has been done for designing innovative nanoparticles able to specifically target tumor cells and ensure the controlled release of anticancer agents. To avoid the potential toxicity of synthetic materials, natural nanoparticles started to attract increasing scientific interest. In this context, this paper aims to review the most important natural nanoparticles used as active ingredients (e.g., polyphenols, polysaccharides, proteins, and sterol-like compounds) or as carriers (e.g., proteins, polysaccharides, viral nanoparticles, and exosomes) of various anticancer moieties, focusing on their recent applications in treating diverse malignancies.

Targeting Cancer Stem Cells by Dietary Agents: An Important Therapeutic Strategy against Human Malignancies

As a multifactorial disease, treatment of cancer depends on understanding unique mechanisms involved in its progression. The cancer stem cells (CSCs) are responsible for tumor stemness and by enhancing colony formation, proliferation as well as metastasis, and these cells can also mediate resistance to therapy. Furthermore, the presence of CSCs leads to cancer recurrence and therefore their complete eradication can have immense therapeutic benefits. The present review focuses on targeting CSCs by natural products in cancer therapy. The growth and colony formation capacities of CSCs have been reported can be attenuated by the dietary agents. These compounds can induce apoptosis in CSCs and reduce tumor migration and invasion via EMT inhibition. A variety of molecular pathways including STAT3, Wnt/β-catenin, Sonic Hedgehog, Gli1 and NF-κB undergo down-regulation by dietary agents in suppressing CSC features. Upon exposure to natural agents, a significant decrease occurs in levels of CSC markers including CD44, CD133, ALDH1, Oct4 and Nanog to impair cancer stemness. Furthermore, CSC suppression by dietary agents can enhance sensitivity of tumors to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In addition to in vitro studies, as well as experiments on the different preclinical models have shown capacity of natural products in suppressing cancer stemness. Furthermore, use of nanostructures for improving therapeutic impact of dietary agents is recommended to rapidly translate preclinical findings for clinical use.