[Nanoparticles and radiation therapy]

Abstract

Background: Nanoparticles have emerged in oncology as new therapeutic agents of distinct biochemical and physical properties, and pharmacokinetics. Current rationale and clinical applications in combination with radiation therapy were analyzed.

Material and methods: A review of the literature was conducted on nanoparticles as radiosensitizers, with a focus on metallic nanoparticles and radiosensitization mechanisms.

Results: Nanoparticles are mainly used as vectors for drugs or to potentiate dose deposit selectively in irradiated tissues. Preclinical data suggest a predominating effect in the kilovoltage range through a photoelectric effect and a potential in the megavoltage range under a combination of physical and biochemical (diameter, concentration, site of infusion etc) conditions. Several clinical trials are ongoing with metallic/crystalline nanoparticles.

Conclusion: Nanoparticles have shown a potential for better therapeutic index with radiation therapy, which is being increasingly investigated clinically.

Keywords: Cancer; Metallic; Métallique; Nanoparticle; Nanoparticule; Radiation therapy; Radiosensibilisation; Radiosensitization; Radiothérapie.