The fast clearance and limited tumor accumulation seriously imperil practical applications of nano delivery systems (NDSs). Therefore, the additional engineering modification is usually needed. An NDS integrating flexible camouflage, specific bio-recognition, and sensitive stimuli-responsiveness into one sequence would be “smart” and highly effective. Hence, we systematically summarize the related principles, methods, and progress; meanwhile, provide instructive prospection.

Abstract

Nanodelivery systems (NDSs) provide promising prospects for decreasing drug doses, reducing side effects, and improving therapeutic effects. However, the bioapplications of NDSs are still compromised by their fast clearance, indiscriminate biodistribution, and limited tumor accumulation. Hence, engineering modification of NDSs aiming at promoting tumor-specific therapy and avoiding systemic toxicity is usually needed. An NDS integrating various functionalities, including flexible camouflage, specific biorecognition, and sensitive stimuli-responsiveness, into one sequence would be “smart” and highly effective. Herein, we systematically summarize the related principles, methods, and progress. At the end of the review, we predict the obstacles to precise nanoengineering and prospects for the future application of NDSs.