LAUSR

The dense and heterogeneous physical network of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in tumors represents a formidable barrier that limits intratumor drug delivery and the therapeutic efficacy of many anticancer therapies. In this review, we summarize the two major nanomedicine strategies to circumvent intratumor ECM barriers: regulating the physiochemical properties of nanomedicines and remodeling the components and structure of the ECM. Nanomedicines can be rationally regulated by optimizing physiochemical properties or designed with biomimetic features to promote ECM permeation capability. Meanwhile, they can also be designed to remodel the ECM by modulating signaling pathways or destroying the components and architecture of the ECM via chemical, biological or physical treatments. These efforts produce profound improvements in intratumor drug delivery and anticancer efficacy. Moreover, to aid in their anticancer efficacy, feasible approaches for improving ECM-circumventing nanomedicines are proposed. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.