Strategies to target tumors using nanodelivery systems based on biodegradable polymers, aspects of intellectual property, and market

摘要

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with projections estimating 13.1 million of deaths in 2030 [1–3]. There are many different cancer types, as well as complex metastatic processes, limiting the efficacy of broad stroke treatments [4–6]. Solid tumors account for up to 80 % of all cancers, and despite the great number of anticancer drugs available, treatment is still a challenge for the chemotherapist in pharmaceutical companies [7]. Cases of stomach and breast cancers have been illustrated in the Egyptian history (1500–3000 bc), and physicians used to remove surgically the mass of tumor as palliative. Then, surgery was the most used method to cancer treatment until chemotherapeutic drugs development [8–10]. Chemotherapy refers to the uses of conventional drugs to eradicate or eliminate the growth and development of tumors cells [11]. Earlier, cancer treatment began with Goodman and Gilman in 1941, using the nitrogen mustards, which had effect of leukocyte reduction in patients with lymphosarcoma. However, further studies with these substances identified their carcinogenic effects [10]. Many molecules with antiproliferative and cytocidal effects have been reported, especially antifolate and platinum-based drugs, as described by Rosenberg in 1970s. Cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin are examples of compounds that are widely used for the treatment of different types of cancer until today. Other anticancer drugs have been released in 1990s, for treatment of solid tumors, including vinca alkaloids and the taxanes [12–14].