NANOPARTICLES FOR THE TREATMENT OF ACUTE MYELOID LEUKEMIA

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This article synthesizes the therapeutic potential of nanoparticles in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), emphasizing their main mechanisms of action and advantages over conventional therapies. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising approach due to its ability to enhance drug selectivity, reduce toxicity, and improve treatment outcomes in hematologic malignancies. METHODOLOGY: A descriptive bibliographic search was conducted in scientific databases, initially identifying 68 studies published between 2017 and 2025. After applying inclusion criteria—such as the use of nanoparticles and evidence of positive therapeutic effects—10 articles were selected for final analysis. Titles, abstracts, and full texts were reviewed to gather comprehensive and updated information on the subject. RESULTS: The selected studies described the use of liposomes, inorganic nanoparticles, and microRNA-based systems. Liposomes demonstrated selective targeting of leukemic cells and increased drug delivery efficiency. Inorganic nanoparticles, including gold and iron oxide particles, exhibited both therapeutic and diagnostic applications, such as thermal ablation, controlled drug release, and imaging. MicroRNA-based systems were shown to regulate pathways involved in tumor proliferation and drug resistance. Combinations of nanoparticles with miRNAs enhanced pro-apoptotic responses and reduced leukemic cell viability. Overall, the studies reported improved therapeutic selectivity, lower systemic toxicity, enhanced bioavailability, and the potential to overcome resistance mechanisms. Collectively, nanotechnology-based therapies exhibited superior performance compared to conventional treatment approaches. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: The findings indicate that nanoparticles represent a promising and targeted strategy to improve the safety and effectiveness of acute myeloid leukemia treatment.