pH-responsive polymeric nanostructures for cancer theranostics

Abstract

Responsive polymeric nanostructures are being designed to improve the efficiency of existing treatment techniques by delivering therapeutics in precise locations. The properties of the particles can be altered to act as a probe for imaging applications also. Hence, an effective theranostic agent can be tailor-made to meet the requirements. The pH variability has aroused considerable interest in nano-responsive-stimulus production since the mild acidic condition is a hallmark of the tumor microenvironment. The cargo sealed inside the carrier will be released either by swelling or disassembly of the carrier as they meet a pH drop. The modification strategy for the synthesis of pH-responsive polymers is discussed in the manuscript. Fabrication of pH-responsive theranostic agents can conquer major limitations of conventional treatment techniques. Herein we reported imperative insights on recent pH-sensitive polymeric nanomaterials for the treatment of various disease conditions, especially cancer.