Mingtang Zeng,1,2,* Chenji Hu,1,* Tao Chen,3 Tingrui Zhao,4 Xinhua Dai2 

1Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China; 3Pharmacy Department, Chongqing Emergency Medical Center, Chongqing University Central Hospital, Chongqing, 400014, People’s Republic of China; 4Department of Pharmacy, The Third Hospital of Mianyang, Sichuan Mental Health Center, Mianyang, 621000, People’s Republic of China

*These authors contributed equally to this work

Correspondence: Tingrui Zhao, Department of Pharmacy, The Third Hospital of Mianyang, Sichuan Mental Health Center, Mianyang, 621000, People’s Republic of China, Email tingruizhao0801@163.com Xinhua Dai, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China, Email dxh9123@163.com

Abstract: Breast cancer remains the leading cause of female mortality worldwide, necessitating innovative and multifaceted approaches to address its various subtypes. Nanotechnology has attracted considerable attention due to its nanoscale dimensions, diverse carrier types, suitability for hydrophobic drug delivery, and capacity for controlled and targeted administration. Nano-sized particles have become prevalent carriers for therapeutic agents targeting breast cancer, thanks to their reproducible synthesis and adjustable properties, including size, shape, and surface characteristics. In addition, certain nanoparticles can enhance therapeutic effects synergistically. However, the immune system often detects and removes these nanoparticles, limiting their efficacy. As a promising alternative, cell membrane-based delivery systems have gained attention due to their biocompatibility and targeting specificity. These membrane-coated drug delivery systems are derived from various cell sources, including blood cells, cancer cells, and stem cells. Leveraging the unique properties of these cell membranes enables precise targeting of breast cancer tumors and associated biomarkers. Inspired by natural structures, cell membranes disguise nanoparticles in the bloodstream, enhancing their retention time in vivo and improving tumor targeting. Consequently, cell membrane-derived nanoparticles (CMDNPs) have been investigated for their potential applications in breast cancer diagnostics, photothermal therapy (PTT), and vaccine development. This review comprehensively explores the potential and limitations of cell membrane-derived drug delivery systems in clinical applications against breast cancer.

Keywords: cell membrane-derived nanoparticles, breast cancer, active targeting, combination therapy, biomimetic delivery systems