Review Article

Multifunctional nanoparticles in colorectal cancer therapy: Advances in targeted drug delivery systems

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), JC Road, 34, 1st Cross Rd, Bengaluru, 560027, Karnataka, India

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Received: 25 July 2025
Accepted: 26 January 2026

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health concern with a high fatality rate, particularly in its late stages. Traditional treatments, such as surgery and chemotherapy, have been reported as unsuccessful in some cases due to adverse side effects, lack of pharmaceutical specificity, and drug resistance. Nanoparticle-mediated delivery of medications has been presented as a unique method for increasing treatment efficacy while reducing systemic toxicity. Nanoparticles (NPs), which comprise liposomes, polymers, dendrimers, silica nanoparticles, and nanoemulsions, provide controlled drug release, improved bioavailability, and tumour-specific therapeutic targeting. Their physicochemical properties enable them to be functionalised with greater specificity while reducing off-target effects. This review combines multiple nanoparticle-based drug delivery techniques for CRC therapy, assessing their merits, shortcomings, and potential future applications. Though nanomedicine has shown great promise in preclinical and clinical trials, there are obstacles to optimising targeted approaches and identifying specific molecular biomarkers. Continued research into nanobioconjugation and multifunctional nanocarriers can pave the road for more effective and personalised CRC treatment.