Conducted by PIT
, Started on 2024 -
Completed on 2025
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Cancer remains a major global health burden; consequently, the development of more effective and less
toxic treatment options is paramount. DNA nanostructures are a promising platform for cancer therapy
harnessing the unique properties of DNA. They represent an ideal platform for therapeutics, in part
because they are programmable, biocompatible, and possess unique molecular architectures. Structures
such as DNA origami, tetrahedra, polyhedra, and dendrimers can serve as versatile carriers for
chemotherapeutic agents, gene-silencing molecules (such as siRNA and ASOs), photosensitizers, and
immunomodulatory compounds. DNA nanostructures can also enhance traditional chemotherapy and new
strategies, such as gene therapy, phototherapy (PDT/PTT), and immunotherapy, by delivering genetic
material, photosensitizers (PDT or PTT), or immune-response activators (e.g., CpG motifs) directly to the
disease site. Preclinically, DNA nanostructures have demonstrated improved drug bioavailability, significant
tumor regression, and induction of a strong immune response with fewer off-target effects or toxicities
than conventional therapies. This narrative review summarizes the recent advances in DNA nanostructures
as anticancer agents.