Nanomedicine: A pragmatic approach for tackling melanoma skin cancer

Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer and its annual incidence rates are increasing globally. Though chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy have significantly improved treatment outcomes, toxic effects and resistance are associated with these therapies. The ongoing research on therapeutically innovative and effective treatment strategies for such cancers led to the advancement of functional nanocarriers. These nanoplatforms can overcome the challenges linked with existing approaches, such as aimless distribution, unwanted off-target effects and suboptimal efficacy. This review summarizes current breakthroughs in the targeted delivery of nanotherapeutics for melanoma therapy. Different nanocarriers based on lipids, polymers and inorganic materials targeting melanoma are the main spotlights. Moreover, the role of nanomedicine in photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy and the efficient delivery of genes and natural therapeutics for melanoma treatment is also highlighted.