Development of an ultrasound-mediated nano-sized drug-delivery system for cancer treatment: from theory to experiment

<b>Aim:</b> To establish a methodology for understanding how ultrasound (US) induces drug release from nano-sized drug-delivery systems (NSDDSs) and enhances drug penetration and uptake in tumors. This aims to advance cancer treatment strategies. <b>Materials &amp; methods:</b> We developed a multi-physics mathematical model to elucidate and understand the intricate mechanisms governing drug release, transport and delivery. Unique <i>in vitro</i> models (monolayer, multilayer, spheroid) and a tailored US exposure setup were introduced to evaluate drug penetration and uptake. <b>Results:</b> The results highlight the potential advantages of US-mediated NSDDSs over conventional NSDDSs and chemotherapy, notably in enhancing drug release and inducing cell death. <b>Conclusion:</b> Our sophisticated numerical and experimental methods aid in determining and quantifying drug penetration and uptake into solid tumors.