Neurological insights into brain-targeted cancer therapy and bioinspired microrobots

Drug Discov Today. 2024 Sep;29(9):104105. doi: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104105. Epub 2024 Jul 17.

Abstract

Cancer, a multifaceted and pernicious disease, continuously challenges medicine, requiring innovative treatments. Brain cancers pose unique and daunting challenges due to the intricacies of the central nervous system and the blood-brain barrier. In this era of precision medicine, the convergence of neurology, oncology, and cutting-edge technology has given birth to a promising avenue - targeted cancer therapy. Furthermore, bioinspired microrobots have emerged as an ingenious approach to drug delivery, enabling precision and control in cancer treatment. This Keynote review explores the intricate web of neurological insights into brain-targeted cancer therapy and the paradigm-shifting world of bioinspired microrobots. It serves as a critical and comprehensive overview of these evolving fields, aiming to underscore their integration and potential for revolutionary cancer treatments.

Keywords: artificial intelligence; blood–brain barrier; brain-targeted cancer therapy; drug delivery; drug discovery; immunotherapy; neuro-oncology; patient-centred care; precision medicine.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Blood-Brain Barrier* / metabolism
  • Brain / metabolism
  • Brain Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Drug Delivery Systems* / methods
  • Humans
  • Precision Medicine* / methods
  • Robotics*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents