Nano vaccines in Cancer Therapy: A Novel Approach to Enhancing Immune Responses abstract
Cancer remains one of the greatest health challenges of the 21st century. Despite advancements in therapeutic options, current treatments often face significant limitations and adverse effects. A novel approach in cancer therapy involves the use of nano vaccines. Nanoparticles, as highly versatile carriers, can deliver tumor antigens precisely and selectively to the immune system. This targeted delivery has the potential to robustly enhance immune responses and direct the immune system toward recognizing and eliminating cancer cells. This review aims to examine the mechanisms of nano vaccine action and evaluate their clinical applications in cancer treatment. Methods: In this study, data from recent articles and research on the use of nanoparticles in anticancer vaccines were collected and analyzed. Nano vaccines typically utilize lipid-based, polymeric, or metallic nanoparticles as antigen delivery systems. These nanoparticles efficiently transport tumor antigens to dendritic cells and other immune cells, thereby eliciting tumor-specific immune responses. Nano vaccines have been investigated in the treatment of various cancers, including melanoma, breast, lung, and colon cancers, demonstrating promising therapeutic outcomes. Results: Studies have shown that nano vaccines can effectively activate the immune system against cancer. Nanoparticles serve as intermediaries for delivering tumor antigens to immune cells, stimulating specific immune responses capable of identifying and destroying cancer cells. The use of nanoparticles also enables lower antigen doses, reducing the risk of side effects. Additionally, nanoparticles can be combined with other therapies, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy, enhancing treatment efficacy. Research indicates that nanovaccines, apart from being immunotherapy agents, may serve as complementary or even primary treatments for certain cancers. Conclusion: The use of nanoparticles in designing anticancer vaccines represents a novel approach with significant potential to enhance immune responses and treat cancers. These vaccines offer highly effective treatments with fewer side effects compared to traditional methods by precisely targeting tumors and stimulating the immune system. However, further research is essential to optimize their efficiency and assess their safety in clinical trials. In the near future, nano vaccines may become a standard part of cancer treatment, offering a groundbreaking avenue to combat this deadly disease.