Application of Nanotechnology in Therapeutic Cancer Vaccines

Cancer vaccines stimulate the immune system within the body by introducing tumor antigens in various forms, such as tumor cells, tumor‐related proteins or peptides, and genes expressing tumor antigens, into the body. This activation of the immune response aims to prevent or treat tumors. Preventive cancer vaccines are primarily targeted at cancers caused by viral infections, and most cancer vaccines are currently designed as therapeutic vaccines for cancer treatment. In this review, the development of cancer vaccines, the mechanism of action, the types of antigens, and the progress of nanotechnology in therapeutic cancer vaccines are summarized. The development and application of cancer vaccines incorporating tumor‐specific antigens and nanomaterials are anticipated. Therapeutic cancer vaccines have recently shown impressive results in the treatment of multiple cancers. Herein, the development of cancer vaccines, the mechanism of action, and the types of antigens are described; the application of nanotechnology in therapeutic cancer vaccines and the clinical trials of cancer vaccines are further summarized; and finally, the remaining challenges and opportunities are discussed.