The Advent of Micro-and Nanospheres for Cancer Treatment

The discovery of micro-and nanotechnology has put forward a momentous conversion in the traditional methods of diagnosis and therapy. These innovative technologies have given chemotherapy a new dimension, modifying the most notable concern, target selection. Cancer cells are massively similar to normal human cells and chemotherapy cannot differentiate between both, leading to enormous damage to the normal physiological functioning of the body. Microspheres and nanospheres differ from one another in their dimensions. Both kinds of particles can encapsulate the active ingredient in their three-dimensional structures, and release it at the particular site of action decreasing the systemic toxicities. These particles are highly modifiable and along with drug loading, they can be tagged with imaging materials to get the treatment follow-up. They can be made biodegradable and can also act as long-circulating drug carriers, decreasing the dosage frequency. Micro-and nanotechnology has overcome many biophysical and biological barriers staged against conventional therapy by the body. Their selectivity shows a promising diminution in the systemic side effects caused by the chemotherapeutic agents. The chapter defines these technologies based on their origin, dimensions, routes of administration, drug loading and release capacities, formulation methods, application, etc.