EPR-effect: Utilizing size-dependent nanoparticle delivery to solid tumors

摘要

Delivery of nanomedicines to solid tumors depends on the abnormal tumor microenviron-ment and the physicochemical properties of the nanoparticle. The enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect characterizes in large part the tumor microenvironment, but it is not adequate to cause effective delivery of nanoparticle formulations. The effect of the nanoparticle properties, and particularly its size, has to be considered in order to optimize drug delivery and therapeutic outcome.