How Tumor Cells Take In Nanoparticles: Processes, Advances, and Challenges

Nanoparticles may significantly improve cancer therapy by enhancing targeted drug delivery to tumor cells.

• Inefficient uptake by tumor cells is a major obstacle for nanoparticle-based therapies.
• Tumor cells must overcome multiple barriers, including vascular and stromal challenges, to uptake nanoparticles.
• Cell-penetrating peptides may enhance the penetration and escape of nanoparticles from endosomes.
• The physicochemical properties of nanoparticles could influence their uptake efficiency in tumor cells.
• Emerging strategies, such as biomimetic coatings and charge-reversal systems, aim to improve uptake and reduce toxicity to normal tissues.
• The review links various factors, including vascular transport and intracellular processes, as interdependent determinants of effective nanoparticle delivery.

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