Site-Specific Transformable Nanostructures for Cancer Therapy and Diagnosis

Tumor heterogeneity and complex morphologies pose significant challenges to achieving efficient therapeutic outcomes. However, the recent advent of remote-controlled transformable nanostructures has introduced a novel approach to cancer therapy, enabling precise size, shape, and phase changes in nanoparticles in response to external stimuli, such as light, ultrasound, and magnetic fields. These materials offer noninvasive strategies to effectively navigate the dynamic and complex morphologies of tumors, providing unprecedented control over therapeutic targeting and precision in patient-tailored treatments. The real-time modulation of nanomaterial structures optimizes interactions with the tumor microenvironment, improving circulation, endothelial permeation, deep tumor penetration, and subcellular targeting. This review discusses cutting-edge strategies to remotely control the morphology of nanomaterials, emphasizing their integration into modular cancer theranostic platforms. These systems are engineered to target cancer cell membrane receptors and cytoplasm, subcellular organelles, immune cells, and difficult-to-reach areas including the blood–brain barrier and deep-seated tumors. We also explore the potential of multimodal theranostics including dual-triggered, combinatorial, and synergistic therapies that combine therapeutic action with real-time imaging guidance. This review presents a clear and insightful roadmap, unveiling how these cutting-edge advancements open new horizons for adaptive, personalized therapies with exceptional potential to overcome the complexities of metastatic tumor treatment and advance clinical translation.