The diverse abilities of
cerium oxide nanoparticles (CONPs) have encouraged researchers to pursue CONPs as a therapeutic agent to treat a number of diseases, including
cancer. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown CONPs to be toxic to
cancer cells, inhibit invasion, and sensitize
cancer cells to
radiation therapy. However, CONPs display minimal toxicity to normal tissues and provide protection from various forms of
reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. The
antioxidant capabilities of CONPs, which enable radiation protection, have also resulted in the exploration of these particles as a potential treatment for other disorders characterized by ROS accumulation, such as diabetes and
macular degeneration. While critical information regarding the uptake, retention, and clearance of these particles is incomplete and conflicting reports exist about in vitro toxicity, most research into the various applications of CONPs has yielded promising data. This review highlights the current research into
cerium oxide nanoparticles as a novel therapeutic for the treatment of
cancer and other diseases.