Targeted Drug Delivery Systems in Oncology: A Review of Recent Patents and future directions

Cancer remains a global health challenge, necessitating innovative treatment strategies to improve outcomes while minimizing side effects. Targeted Drug Delivery Systems (TDDS) have revolutionized oncology by addressing limitations of traditional chemotherapy, such as systemic toxicity, lack of specificity, and drug resistance. Utilizing nanotechnology, biomarker-based targeting, and immunotherapy, TDDS enables precise drug delivery to tumors, enhancing efficacy while protecting healthy tissues. Nanotechnology has facilitated the development of liposomes, dendrimers, micelles, and solid lipid nanoparticles, leveraging the Enhanced Permeability and Retention (EPR) effect for tumor accumulation. Examples like Doxil, a PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin, have improved ovarian cancer treatment by reducing cardiotoxicity. Biomarker-based approaches, such as antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), further enhance specificity. Trastuzumab emtansine (Kadcyla), targeting HER2-positive breast cancer, has demonstrated improved survival rates. TDDS also integrates with immunotherapy to boost immune checkpoint inhibitors, enhance antigen delivery, and optimize cytokine therapy. Lipid nanoparticles and dendrimers are being engineered to improve immune responses while minimizing adverse effects. However, challenges such as tumor heterogeneity, drug resistance, high production costs, and regulatory barriers limit widespread adoption. Ongoing research focuses on overcoming these barriers through personalized medicine, AI-driven designs, and sustainable platforms. TDDS represents a paradigm shift in oncology, combining precision and safety to improve patient outcomes. By integrating emerging technologies and addressing current limitations, TDDS holds the potential to transform cancer treatment, offering hope for better survival and quality of life.