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Integration of active ingredients from traditional Chinese medicine with nano-delivery systems for tumor immunotherapy

Summary

This review examines how traditional Chinese medicine ingredients can boost the body’s natural ability to fight cancer when combined with tiny nanoparticles that deliver drugs more effectively. The nanoparticles help TCM compounds work better by improving how they dissolve, how long they stay in the body, and where they target. By activating immune cells like natural killer cells and dendritic cells while reducing immune-suppressing cells, this combination approach offers a promising new strategy for cancer treatment with fewer side effects.

Background

Tumor immune escape presents a significant challenge in cancer treatment. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) contains active ingredients with anti-tumor properties and immunomodulatory effects. Nano-delivery systems can enhance the bioavailability and targeted delivery of TCM active ingredients.

Objective

This review comprehensively analyzes how TCM active ingredients modulate the immune system to enhance anti-tumor responses. It explores the synergistic application of nano-delivery systems combined with TCM active ingredients for enhancing tumor immunotherapy.

Results

TCM active ingredients modulate multiple immune cells and pathways including enhancing M1 macrophages, increasing natural killer cell and cytotoxic T lymphocyte activity, promoting dendritic cell maturation, and reducing regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Nano-delivery systems enhance drug stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery while reducing side effects.

Conclusion

Integration of TCM active ingredients with nano-delivery systems represents a promising approach for tumor immunotherapy. This combination enhances immunomodulatory effects and anti-tumor responses through multiple mechanisms while improving pharmacological properties and clinical efficacy.
  • Published in:Journal of Nanobiotechnology,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.1186/s12951-025-03378-y, PMID: 40382641
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