A paradigm shift in cancer nanomedicine: from traditional tumor targeting to leveraging the immune system

Abstract

Twenty-five years after the approval of the first anticancer nanodrug, we have to start re(de)fining tumor-targeted drug delivery alongside advances in immuno-oncology. Given that cancer is characterized by an immunological imbalance that goes beyond the primary tumor, we should focus on targeting, engaging, and modulating cancer-associated immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), circulation, and immune cell-enriched tissues. When designed and applied rationally, nanomedicines will assist in restoring the immunological equilibrium at the whole-body level, which holds potential not only for cancer therapy, but also for the treatment of a range of other disorders.