Nanotechnology-Based Systems for Enhancing the Efficacy of Sonodynamic Therapy in Cancer Treatment

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is a minimally invasive cancer therapeutic modality that utilizes low-intensity ultrasound to activate sensitizers for the production of cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the site-specific ablation of tumors. Compared to conventional cancer treatments, SDT has no adverse side effects, has been shown to radically reduce tumor volume, and has the potential to raise antitumor immune response. Ever-increasing studies have demonstrated that nanotechnology can significantly enhance the efficacy of SDT against certain cancers and improve its therapeutic effects. Nanosystems are developed that can improve the intratumoral delivery and cellular uptake of sensitizers, can reduce intrinsic cancer defenses against ROS, can act synergistically for the production of ROS and can tackle cancer immune tolerance. In this review, the various strategies to enhance SDT performance with the assistance of nanotechnology, and the outstanding research outcomes, are discussed.