Introduction: The enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect is a pivotal mechanism that facilitates the accumulation of macromolecules and nanoparticles in solid tumors owing to abnormal vasculature and impaired lymphatic drainage. This phenomenon underpins the development of tumor-targeted nanomedicines. Methods: A comprehensive review of recent studies was conducted, focusing on nanoparticlemediated drug delivery that exploits the EPR effect. Special emphasis was placed on transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS) integrated with nanoparticles for cancer therapy, highlighting their design, size range (10–500 nm), and multifunctional potential. Results: Evidence demonstrates that nanoparticles utilizing the EPR effect achieve enhanced accumulation and prolonged retention in tumor tissues while reducing the systemic toxicity. Transdermal nanoparticle systems enable sustained and controlled drug release, thereby improving bioavailability and patient compliance. Moreover, multifunctional nanoparticles show promise for simultaneous drug delivery, imaging, and targeted therapies. Discussion: The findings indicate that integrating EPR-based nanoparticle delivery with transdermal systems can overcome the limitations of conventional chemotherapy. These advances enhance therapeutic efficacy, minimize side effects, and represent a step toward noninvasive, patient- friendly cancer treatment approaches. Conclusion: The EPR effect, coupled with transdermal nanoparticle delivery, offers a promising platform for personalized cancer therapies. Continued innovations in nanotechnology are expected to further refine these systems, paving the way for effective, targeted, and safe cancer treatment.
Yadav et al. (Thu,) studied this question.