Cancer remains one of the most challenging diseases worldwide, responsible for nearly 10 million deaths in 2023. Despite advancements in radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, conventional treatments often face critical limitations: non-specific targeting, systemic toxicity, drug resistance, and limited efficacy.
Market Overview
According to BCC Research, the global market for nanotechnology in cancer treatment was valued at $102.4 billion in 2023. This market is projected to grow significantly, reaching $265.4 billion by the end of 2029, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.4% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2029.
What is Nanotechnology in Oncology?
Nanotechnology in cancer treatment involves the use of materials and devices with dimensions ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers to enhance the detection, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of cancer.
These nanoparticles and nanoscale systems can:
- Penetrate biological barriers
- Target tumors with high specificity
- Enhance the solubility and bioavailability of chemotherapeutic agents
- Reduce systemic toxicity
- Monitor therapeutic outcomes in real time
Technological Innovations Shaping the Market
- Nanocarriers for Drug Delivery
- Innovations are improving how cancer drugs are packaged and delivered using nanoparticles. These advancements enhance stability, bioavailability, and precision in targeting tumor cells while minimizing harm to healthy tissues.
- Example: Liposomal formulations such as Doxil (doxorubicin liposome) are used to deliver chemotherapy more safely and effectively.
- Theranostic Nanoparticles
- These nanoparticles combine therapy and diagnosis in one platform, enabling tumor detection through imaging while simultaneously releasing therapeutic agents.
- Example: Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) ) are utilized for MRI and magnetic hyperthermia.
- Photothermal and Photodynamic Therapy
- Nanoparticles can absorb near-infrared light to generate localized heat or reactive oxygen species, selectively killing cancer cells without harming healthy tissue.
- Materials used: Gold nanoshells, carbon nanotubes, and silica-coated quantum dots.
- Nano-Immunotherapy
- By delivering antigens or immunomodulatory agents directly to dendritic cells or the tumor microenvironment, nanoparticles can enhance immune responses and overcome immune suppression.
- Example: mRNA vaccine-loaded lipid nanoparticles used in personalized cancer vaccines.