Nanoparticles for Cancer Gene Therapy and Imaging

Gene therapy has shown to be a promising strategy for the treatment of cancer through the alteration of gene expression. A main part of its success has been the efficient delivery of genes using nanocarriers. Due to their tunable size, shape and surface properties, nanoparticles are able to deliver large amounts of therapeutic and imaging agents for cancer treatment and monitoring. In this article, the developments in nanoparticles for cancer gene therapy and imaging, referred to as cancer theranostics, are highlighted. The different methods available for producing nanoparticles are discussed, followed by approaches that can be used for loading therapeutic/imaging agents. The techniques for characterizing the physical and chemical properties are explained in order to determine the ability of nanoparticles to effectively accumulate in tumors and internalize in cancer cells. The variety of imaging and therapy modalities that can be used alongside nanoparticles for cancer are reviewed before discussing the different assays important for accurate quantification of viability after treatment. A review into the different applications of nanoparticles for gene therapy and imaging is carried out for researchers interested in understanding the different mechanisms for targeting cancer.