Advancements in Formulation Approaches for Retinoblastoma: An Overview

Abstract

Retinoblastoma (Rb) is an aggressive intraocular tumour that usually affects children and is primarily driven by mutations in the RB1 gene. The treatment of Rb is extremely difficult because of high rates of tumour growth and various anatomical factors that impede effective drug delivery systems. A comprehensive review of recent publications and patents involving Rb drug delivery, molecular therapy, and immunotherapy was conducted to gain insight into improvements in drug delivery systems and advances in drug delivery for treating retinoblastoma. Novel drug delivery systems such as liposomes, nanoparticles, hydrogels, and microneedles enhance localized delivery and reduce systemic toxicity. Recent patents highlight thermoresponsive hydrogels, enzyme-sensitive multi-drug systems, and biomimetic nanoparticles enabling sustained and targeted release. Gene and RNA-based therapies show promise but face delivery barriers. Immunotherapies, including checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T cells, enhance antitumor response, while natural bioactive compounds also contribute via antiproliferative and epigenetic mechanisms. Despite advances that have been made, difficulties still exist in reaching effective targeting of ocular barriers. New and innovative patents have been created to help overcome current limitations of effective, sustained, targeted, and minimally invasive delivery. Patients using multi-modal personal therapies and integrating advanced delivery methods, molecular targeting, immunotherapy, and patent-backed innovations will change the way retinoblastoma is treated. Future research on early diagnostic markers and designing multiple therapy modalities will help to enhance survival and maintain vision.