In situ self-assembled nanomedicines for cancer treatment

Nanomedicines have emerged as a dependable modality for cancer theranostics. However, the limited tumor penetration of conventional nanocarriers poses significant challenges in achieving accurate diagnosis and treatment of cancer, particularly solid tumors. The approach of in situ self-assembly relies on the influence of exogenous molecules on particular physiological and pathological settings, provoking spontaneous self-assembly of drug molecules into sophisticated nanostructures with distinct biological functions. Recently, mounting evidence has demonstrated that the in situ self-assembled strategy facilitates effective enrichment of nanodrugs into deep tumors, showcasing unique advantages in precise tumor imaging and therapy. In this review, we highlight recent breakthroughs in the intersection of in situ self-assembly, cancer treatment, and biomedical nanotechnology. Specifically, we introduce the principles and techniques of in situ nanoassembly and summarize emerging in situ self-assembled nanosystems for precise tumor imaging and high-efficiency cancer therapy. In addition, this study presents in situ nanoassembly-based multimodal therapy. Ultimately, the potential and obstacles associated with in situ self-assembled nanomedicines for anticancer theranostic applications are illuminated.