Theranostic Smart Bionanosensors for Solid Tumors: Advances, Challenges, and Future Directions

Abstract

Theranostic smart bionanosensors represent a revolutionary approach to solid tumor management, integrating accurate diagnostic functions with focused therapeutic strategies. This review thoroughly analyzes the progress of biosensors from traditional diagnostic tools to multifunctional theranostic systems, highlighting advancements in nanomaterials, surface functionalization, and tumor-targeting techniques that improve imaging contrast, payload delivery, and controlled release. Advanced bionanosensors comprising optical, electrochemical, magnetic, hydrogel-based, stimuli-responsive, and wearable platforms facilitate precise biomarker detection, real-time therapeutic monitoring, and minimally invasive diagnostics, presenting unmatched prospects for personalized cancer management. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, including inconsistent tumor uptake, prolonged biocompatibility, possible toxicity, scalability, reproducibility, and regulatory obstacles. The integration of nanomaterial studies, imaging, sensor technology, computational analytics, and clinical innovation offers a strategic framework for advancing smart theranostic bionanosensors from laboratory to clinical application, facilitating precision oncology and enhancing patient outcomes.