Nanotechnology Applied to Sonodynamic Therapy for Cancerous Tumors: Problems and Challenges – A Review

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is an emerging modality for the treatment of malignant tumors that combine low-intensity ultrasound (US) with sonosensitizing agents capable of generating cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon activation. Unlike photodynamic therapy, SDT benefits from the deep tissue penetration of ultrasound, enabling noninvasive treatment of deeply embedded tumors with high spatial precision and minimal systemic toxicity. Despite these advantages, the clinical translation of SDT remains limited due to its low therapeutic efficiency and an incomplete understanding of its underlying mechanisms. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current research trends based on a Scopus literature survey, focusing on the integration of nanotechnology to enhance SDT efficacy. Key mechanisms, therapeutic benefits, limitations, and future challenges are discussed, with an emphasis on the role of nanomaterials in overcoming existing barriers to clinical implementation.