Nanotechnology in Hematology: Enhancing Therapeutic Efficacy With Nanoparticles

Abstract

Background and aims: Hematological malignancies, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma, contribute significantly to global cancer diagnoses. Despite progress in conventional therapies, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy, these treatments face limitations, including nonspecific targeting, side effects, and drug resistance. The aim of this review is to explore the potential of nanotechnology, particularly nanoparticles (NPs), to improve therapeutic outcomes for these cancers by enhancing drug delivery and reducing toxicity.

Methods: This review examines recent advancements in NP-based therapies, focusing on their application in hematological malignancies. We discuss different types of NPs, including liposomes, polymeric, and inorganic NPs, for their potential in targeted drug delivery. The review also evaluates the current state of clinical trials and highlights challenges in the translation of nanomedicines from preclinical research to clinical practice.

Results: Nanoparticles, with their unique properties, offer significant advantages in drug delivery systems, such as enhanced stability, extended circulation time, and targeted tumor delivery. Various NP formulations have shown promise in clinical trials, including liposomal formulations like Vyxeos for acute myeloid leukemia and Marqibo for Ph-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia. However, challenges in toxicity, regulatory hurdles, and large-scale production still remain.

Conclusion: Nanomedicine holds transformative potential in the treatment of hematological malignancies, offering more effective and specific therapies compared to conventional treatments. Continued research is necessary to overcome the clinical challenges and maximize the benefits of NP-based therapies for patients with blood cancers.

Keywords: cancer treatment; hematological malignancies; nanomedicine; nanoparticles; nanotechnology; targeted therapy.

Figure 1

Mechanisms of cell death in cancer induced by nanoparticles.

Figure 2

The diagram visually represents the classification of nanoparticles used in cancer therapy, with a central node labeled “Nanoparticles for Cancer Therapy” connecting to three major categories: Organic Nanoparticles, Inorganic Nanoparticles, and Hybrid Nanoparticles. Each category further branches out to specific nanoparticle types that are actively researched for their applications in cancer treatment. The first group categorizes Organic Nanoparticles, which include liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, and micelles. These nanoparticles are biodegradable and commonly used for drug delivery, helping to target specific cancer cells while reducing systemic toxicity. They are primarily researched for breast cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer, and glioblastoma, among others. The second group focuses on Inorganic Nanoparticles, including gold, silver, quantum dots, silica, and magnetic nanoparticles. These nanoparticles have unique optical, magnetic, and cytotoxic properties, making them useful for both imaging and treatment. They are particularly applied in brain cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and gastrointestinal cancers, where precise imaging and targeted therapy are crucial. The third group highlights Hybrid Nanoparticles, which combine organic and inorganic components for enhanced effectiveness. These include lipid–polymer hybrid nanoparticles, metal‐organicframeworks (MOFs), and carbon‐based nanoparticles such as graphene and carbon nanotubes. They are being researched for pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, lung cancer, and melanoma, offering improved drug stability, high drug‐loading capacity, and advanced photothermal therapy.