Role of Nanostructures and Immunotherapies in Management of Glioblastoma Multiforme: Current Perspectives and Challenges

Abstract

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), a highly infiltrative grade IV primary malignant brain tumor, is characterized
by poor prognosis which ultimately leads to a high mortality rate. Various restrictions such as inadequate
penetration of the drug through the blood-brain barrier, active moieties falling short in achieving accumulation
at tumor site, and short circulation half-life make current conventional chemotherapy insufficient in delivering
the drug molecules successfully. In an attempt to overcome current modalities, nanotechnology has emerged as
an alternative novel therapy for the management of GBM. Nano-therapies such as liposomes, hybrid vesicles,
dendrimers, nanogels, nanorods, and nanowires have been developed for the effective treatment and diagnosis
of GBM. Nano-therapies have been proven superior to conventional drug delivery due to less toxicity, higher
biocompatibility, and enhanced site-specific targeting. In addition, vaccines and immunotherapy have become
a promising strategy for efficacious treatment of GBM. This review provides a brief detail about numerous
aspects of nano-therapies mediated treatment of GBM, associated risk, and advancement in the field of enhanced
brain tumor targeting. The appraisal deals with the triggering factors responsible for GBM and treatment with
various immunotherapies and vaccines and elaborates the significant progress that has been made in the arena of
nanoparticles, immunotherapies, and vaccines which are implemented for combatting GBM.