Application of nanoparticles with targeting, triggered release in anti-cancer drug delivery

In recent years, the higher incidence of cancer has aroused wide public concern. Due to the drawbacks of conventional cancer treatment methods, there has been increasing interest in developing new drug targeting delivery systems with multi-functionalized nanoparticles, such as gold nanoparticles, liposomes, polymers, DNA, etc. Base on the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, the nanoparticles can present both passive and active targeting mechanisms after modified with the targeting biomoleculars on the surface. And the temperature, pH, ultrasound, light and enzymes can all act as incentives for triggered release in tumor regions. This review examines functionalities engineered into nanoparticles recently, including targeting and triggered release of contents, and these properties have raised new opportunities for drug delivery system.