Advancements in Cell Membrane-Derived Biomimetic Nanotherapeutics for Breast Cancer

Abstract

Breast cancer remains the leading cause of female mortality worldwide, necessitating innovative and multifaceted approaches to address its various subtypes. Nanotechnology has attracted considerable attention due to its nanoscale dimensions, diverse carrier types, suitability for hydrophobic drug delivery, and capacity for controlled and targeted administration. Nano-sized particles have become prevalent carriers for therapeutic agents targeting breast cancer, thanks to their reproducible synthesis and adjustable properties, including size, shape, and surface characteristics. In addition, certain nanoparticles can enhance therapeutic effects synergistically. However, the immune system often detects and removes these nanoparticles, limiting their efficacy. As a promising alternative, cell membrane-based delivery systems have gained attention due to their biocompatibility and targeting specificity. These membrane-coated drug delivery systems are derived from various cell sources, including blood cells, cancer cells, and stem cells. Leveraging the unique properties of these cell membranes enables precise targeting of breast cancer tumors and associated biomarkers. Inspired by natural structures, cell membranes disguise nanoparticles in the bloodstream, enhancing their retention time in vivo and improving tumor targeting. Consequently, cell membrane-derived nanoparticles (CMDNPs) have been investigated for their potential applications in breast cancer diagnostics, photothermal therapy (PTT), and vaccine development. This review comprehensively explores the potential and limitations of cell membrane-derived drug delivery systems in clinical applications against breast cancer.

Keywords: active targeting; biomimetic delivery systems; breast cancer; cell membrane-derived nanoparticles; combination therapy.

Figure 1

Schematic illustrations of synthetic procedure for Van-ICG@PLT and the mechanism of synergistic therapy. (A) The assembly processes of Van-ICG@PLT. (B) After intravenous injection, phototherapy and PLT-mediated cascaded delivery of ICG and Van toward synergistically against post-surgical tumor recurrence and wound infection. Reproduced from Liu Y, Qi Y, Chen C, et al. Platelet-mimetic nano-sensor for combating postoperative recurrence and wound infection of triple-negative breast cancer. J Controlled Release. 2023;362:396–408. Copyright 2023, with permission from Elsevier.

Figure 2

Schematic illustration of neutrophil-biomimic platform for eradicating metastatic breast cancer stem-like cells by redox microenvironment modulation and hypoxia-triggered differentiation therapy. Reproduced from Chu Y, Luo Y, Su B, et al. A neutrophil-biomimic platform for eradicating metastatic breast cancer stem-like cells by redox microenvironment modulation and hypoxia-triggered differentiation therapy. Acta pharmaceutica Sinica B. 2023;13(1):298–314. Copyright 2023, with permission from Elsevier.

Figure 3

(A) Exosomes can be secreted by nearly all tissues and organs, making them detectable in a variety of bodily fluids, including blood, saliva, and sweat. (B) The process of exosome production involves the maturation of early endosomes, which invaginate and eventually transform into late endosomes or multivesicular bodies (MVBs). (C) Exosomes contain a diverse array of molecular constituents, including DNA, RNA, lipids, and proteins. (D) The methods by which exosomes load drugs.