Pharmacoproteomics and Drug Delivery Strategies for Cancer Nanomedicines

Proteomic data serves as an important source for the prediction of drug response and the discovery of biomarkers since there is a direct interaction between most drugs and proteins within targeted cells rather than binding to DNA or RNA. It is now possible to generate large proteomic datasets through the advent of advanced mass spectrometry and associated process methods. Pharmacoproteomics, or the tailoring of therapy based on proteomic knowledge, has been projected to play a major role in the process. Proteomics holds huge potential as a major contributor to cancer prevention and cure based on its unique ability to provide cutting-edge tools for the discovery of biomarkers as well as therapeutic targets. In this way, it is possible to translate novel discoveries through basic science into bedside solutions for personalised medicines. However, the delivery of these protein-based therapeutics against inherent de novo barriers within the biological system remains a major hurdle to overcome in disease therapy like cancer. Meanwhile, with the progress in nanotechnological and nanomaterial approaches, it is possible to design and fabricate intelligent nanosystems that can serve as conduits, providing a shield for protein-based actives for targeted delivery and fostering effective and optimum therapeutic efficacy in cancer management. Thus, this chapter provides an overview of new and convectional proteomic strategies for protein therapeutics and their efficient delivery options for cancer nanomedicines.