Nanoparticles Application in Cancer Therapy: An Update Overview
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15662/IJRAI.2025.0806017Keywords:
Nanotechnology, Nanoparticles, Liposomes, Cancer, Dendrimers, Solid-lipid nanoparticlesAbstract
The NLRP3 inflammasome has emerged as a pivotal driver of inflammation through activation of caspase-1 and subsequent maturation of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18. Dysregulated or persistent NLRP3 activation contributes to the onset and progression of numerous chronic disorders, particularly within the cardiovascular and neurological systems, including myocardial infarction, heart failure, atherosclerosis, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes-associated complications. As a result, the development of selective NLRP3 inhibitors has become an important therapeutic pursuit aimed at mitigating sustained inflammatory damage while avoiding broad immunosuppression. This review highlights recent advancements in the discovery, optimization, and early clinical evaluation of small-molecule NLRP3 inhibitors such as MCC950, dapansutrile (OLT1177), NT-0796, and emerging next-generation candidates. Preclinical and phase I data demonstrate encouraging outcomes, including attenuation of inflammatory pathways, stabilization of atherosclerotic lesions, improved cardiac and cognitive performance, and enhanced safety profiles relative to non-specific anti-inflammatory agents. Furthermore, ongoing research is focused on overcoming challenges involving limited brain penetration, allelic resistance variants, and off-target activity. Integrating biomarker-guided patient selection, improved drug delivery technologies, and precision pharmacology is expected to strengthen therapeutic predictability and clinical translation. Despite the progress made, achieving long-term safety, optimized tissue targeting, and individualized treatment regimens remains a critical objective. Continued advancements in molecular insight and translational science are poised to redefine therapeutic strategies for inflammation-driven cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases through targeted NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition.
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