Polyphenol-Loaded Nano-carriers for Breast Cancer Therapy: A Comprehensive Review

Breast cancer remains a significant global health challenge, demanding innovative therapeutic approaches. Polyphenols, a class of natural compounds widely distributed in fruits, vegetables, and beverages, possess robust antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They exhibit the potential to mitigate cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis. Nevertheless, their clinical utility is impeded by limited bioavailability and stability issues. These impediments find a solution through the advent of nanotechnology. Nano-carriers, owing to their diminutive dimensions and distinctive attributes, hold promise in enhancing the delivery of polyphenols to tumor sites, thereby augmenting bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. Various nano-carriers, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and solid lipid nanoparticles, have been explored for polyphenol transport. These carriers safeguard polyphenols from degradation and enhance their solubility, facilitating targeted delivery to tumor sites and potentially reducing systemic adverse effects. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth examination of the current state of polyphenol-loaded nano-carriers in breast cancer therapy. It elucidates their potential as an innovative and precision-focused therapeutic modality to improve patient outcomes while mitigating side effects. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]