ADVANCES IN POLYPHENOL NANOFORMULATIONS FOR CANCER THERAPY: FROM MOLECULAR MECHANISMS TO CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

Polyphenols are a diverse class of naturally occurring bioactive compounds that have demonstrated significant anticancer potential through their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, ant proliferative, and pro-apoptotic properties. However, their clinical application has been limited by poor aqueous solubility, low bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and lack of target specificity. Recent advances in nanotechnology have provided innovative strategies to overcome these limitations through the development of polyphenol-based Nano formulations. This review highlights the progress in Nano engineered delivery systems, including polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, Nano emulsions, micelles, and hybrid Nano carriers, which enhance the stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery of polyphenols. The review also discusses the pharmacokinetic advantages, physicochemical characterization, and synergistic potential of combining polyphenols with conventional chemotherapeutic agents. Importantly, emerging clinical studies demonstrate improved efficacy and safety profiles, supporting the translational potential of these systems. Despite existing challenges related to scalability, regulatory approval, and long-term safety, polyphenol-based Nano formulations represent a promising approach for next-generation cancer therapy, bridging the gap between molecular mechanisms and clinical applications