Advances in Nanotechnology for Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery of Bone Cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Although effective treatments for bone cancer currently exist, nanotechnology promises to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and recovery from this disease. This paper explores the various ways in which nanotechnology is being explored in relation to the imaging of tumours, the delivery of treatments, and the rebuilding of bones.

Methods: Using computer aided searches, studies from across the globe that highlighted the development of nanotechnology for application in treating bone cancers were located. A total of ten articles were selected for inclusion in this paper because they represent a broad array of nanotechnology applications related to primary and secondary bone cancer.

Results: The results of this research indicate that nanotechnology can be used to detect cancer by identifying tumour biomarkers by amplifying Raman signals, transmitting light wave signals, and by attaching fluorescent nanomaterials. Other studies found that nanomaterials can cause apoptosis of cancer cells while promoting healing in other non-cancerous cells. It has also been found that nanomaterials can deliver mRNA and small interfering RNA treatment directly to the tumour site. Nanomaterials have also been found to be useful as photothermal agents. Not only can nanomaterials be used to stimulate bone regeneration, researchers have also found that it can also be used to create scaffolds which mimic the extracellular matrix of natural bone.

Discussion: Although nanotechnology holds great promise, it also presents several potential dangers. Researchers have found that nanoparticles can be inhaled and may do damage to the lungs. In addition, some researchers note that the introduction of nanomaterials may cause an increase in radical oxygen species which can also harm humans and other species. Therefore, more research is needed to find ways to lessen the impact of these potential harmful aspects of nanomaterials.

Conclusion: Nanotechnology is a relatively new field that has the potential to improve the ways to diagnose and treat bone cancers. However, it is imperative to continue to research the more harmful aspects of nanotechnology so steps may be taken to reduce the risk while increasing the benefits.