Nanotechnology based approaches for leukemia therapy

Review article | https://doi.org/10.47262/BL/10.2.20241021

Seema Inayat, Rida e Maria Qazi, Shariqa Khwaja, Afsar Ali Mian*, Fawad Ur Rehman*

Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan

Abstract

Leukemia, a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality, primarily affect blood-forming tissues. It is classified into four main types: acute myeloid leukemia (AML), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). These subtypes vary in characteristics and prevalence, affecting different age groups, from children to adults, with prognosis heavily influenced by the type and severity of the disease. Conventional treatments for leukemia, including chemotherapy, radiation, and stem cell therapy, have notable limitations, such as non-specific targeting, high costs, drug resistance, and issues related to donor compatibility. These limitations underscore the urgent need for innovative solutions. One of the major challenges in treating leukemia with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) is the frequent resistance due to factors like lack of specific targeting, underdosing, limited bioavailability, and severe adverse effects. Nanotechnology presents a promising solution to these challenges by utilizing nanoscale materials such as liposomes, metallic nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and biomimetic nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems offer enhanced drug targeting, reduced systemic toxicity, and improved therapeutic efficacy. This review highlights recent advancements in nanotechnology to improve leukemia treatment.