Theoretical design of model nanoparticles for targeted cell-surface binding:
Targeting therapeutic nanoparticles to circulating tumor cells is a crucial step in cancer detection and eradication. The efficiency of this treatment relies on optimally binding surface ligands of the nanoparticles to the specific patterns of receptors uniquely displayed by the target cells prior to cellular uptake. We present a theoretical study that identifies the key characteristics of nanoparticles for binding to different types of afflicted cells, enabling enhanced detection and targeting capabilities.