Nanosensors for Early Detection and Diagnosis of Cancer: A Review of Recent Advances
M. F. Eissa
Abstract
Nanosensors are miniature devices that detect and measure physical or chemical properties at the nanoscale level, with applications in healthcare, environmental monitoring, industrial processes, and food safety. Early detection and diagnosis of cancer are crucial for successful treatment and improved patient outcomes. Types of nanosensors used in cancer detection include optical, magnetic, and electrochemical. Quantum dots, carbon nanotubes, and gold nanoparticles offer unique advantages in cancer diagnosis and treatment, enabling precise imaging, targeted drug delivery, and improved treatment strategies. Gold nanoparticles have multiple mechanisms of action in cancer therapy, including photothermal therapy, targeting cancer cells, biomarker detection, imaging techniques, and nanosensors. They can generate heat, enhance radiation therapy efficacy, and target cancer cells for targeted drug delivery. They can also bind with specific biomarkers, enabling early diagnosis and monitoring of the disease. Recent advances in nanosensors have improved sensitivity and specificity, allowing for non-invasive and efficient cancer screening. Functionalized nanoparticles and signal amplification techniques can enhance the sensitivity and detection limits of nanosensors, enabling even lower concentrations of cancerous cells.