Abstract

Abstract:
Conventional chemotherapeutics are frequently limited by systemic toxicity and poor selectivity, and cancer continues to be a leading cause of death globally. With specially designed nanocarriers that transport medications straight to tumor locations, nanotechnology provides encouraging alternatives. The development of tailored drug delivery systems has increased due to the drawbacks of traditional cancer therapies, including multidrug resistance, systemic toxicity, and nonspecific drug distribution. By increasing site-specific drug accumulation, reducing off-target effects, and boosting therapeutic efficacy, nanocarrier-based delivery presents a possible option. Recent developments in nanocarrier systems—such as liposomes, dendrimers, solid lipid nanoparticles, and polymeric micelles—that are intended for the accurate administration of chemotherapeutic drugs are highlighted in this study. This systematic review synthesizes recent advancements (2018–2025) in nanocarrier strategies, exploring diverse types, their mechanisms of action, and their applications in targeted drug delivery. Important topics covered include targeted ligands, controlled release methods, drug encapsulation effectiveness, and physicochemical characteristics. The study also examines preclinical and clinical research that shows how nanocarriers can be used to treat different kinds of cancer. Large-scale production, regulatory restrictions, and immunological clearance are still issues despite significant advancements. In order to maximize therapeutic results, future developments will focus on integrating biosensors, artificial intelligence, and stimuli-responsive systems. Our results demonstrate developments in polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, liposomes, and hybrid systems. In order to expedite the clinical translation of nanomedicine in oncology, this review promotes a multidisciplinary strategy.

Key words: Nanocarriers; Drug delivery; Cancer therapy; Tumor targeting; Liposomes.