Clinical Translation of Nanomedicine in Oncology: A Comprehensive Analysis of Developments, Obstacles, and Prospects in Brain, Hepatic, Renal, and Breast Cancers

Abstract

Nanomedicine is rapidly reshaping oncology by improving drug delivery, enhancing therapeutic precision, and reducing systemic toxicity. This systematic review evaluates clinical trials (2019–2024) involving nanomedicine-based interventions across four major cancers: hepatic, renal, breast, and brain malignancies. The analysis reveals that breast cancer has achieved the most significant translational advances, supported by the clinical approval of liposomal doxorubicin, albumin-bound paclitaxel, and polymeric micelles, which demonstrate improved tolerability and survival benefits compared to conventional chemotherapeutics. In hepatic and renal cancers, nanomedicine approaches highlight promising advances in tumor targeting, immune modulation, and theranostics, although large-scale survival benefits are yet to be confirmed. For brain tumors, innovative nanocarriers have shown improved blood–brain barrier penetration and safety profiles; however, their clinical translation remains restricted by small sample sizes and early-phase evaluations. Nonetheless, integration of nanomedicine with immunotherapy, personalization strategies, and multifunctional theranostic designs represents a strong forward trajectory. This review emphasizes both the achievements and persistent barriers in the clinical translation of nanomedicine and outlines future strategies required for advancing precision oncology.