A Systematic Analysis of the Use of Polymeric Nanoparticles to Enhance the Effectiveness of Targeted Drug Delivery in Cancer Therapy

Muhammad Faisal; Dzun Haryadi Ittiqo; Yuli Fitriana; Widayatul Khairi; Wahyu Suryadi Ningrat

Authors

Muhammad Faisal Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram
Dzun Haryadi Ittiqo Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram
Yuli Fitriana Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram
Widayatul Khairi Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram
Wahyu Suryadi Ningrat Universitas Nusantara Balikpapan

Keywords:

Polymeric Nanoparticles, Targeted Drug Delivery, Cancer Therapy, Physicochemical Properties

Abstract

Polymeric nanoparticles have emerged as a versatile platform for targeted drug delivery in cancer therapy, offering opportunities to improve therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic toxicity. This systematic literature review (SLR) comprehensively examines studies published over the past 10 years (2016-2025), sourced from Scopus, DOAJ, and Google Scholar, to identify key physicochemical parameters and biological mechanisms that govern nanoparticle performance. The analysis reveals that particle size critically determines tumor accumulation through the Enhanced Permeability and Retention (EPR) effect and influences systemic biodistribution, whereas surface charge modulates cellular uptake, protein corona formation, and clearance dynamics. Additionally, the implementation of surface modifications and ligand-mediated active targeting strategies further enhances selective tumor targeting and promotes apoptosis in malignant cells. Emerging trends, including dual-targeting approaches, stimuli-responsive polymers, and nanotheranostics, demonstrate the evolution of polymeric nanoparticles toward personalized and clinically translatable cancer therapies. This review underscores the necessity of integrated design strategies that combine precise physicochemical control with an understanding of biological interactions to optimize drug delivery outcomes, providing a roadmap for future research and clinical translation.

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