Résumé
This thesis explores the use of self-assembled protein only nanoparticles for targeting CXCR4+ cancers. It begins by defining and classifying nanotechnologies used in healthcare, distinguishing lipid, polymeric, metallic, and protein nanoparticles, and highlights the importance of their size, shape, and surface characteristics, which influence their interaction in the human body. The following chapters focus on anticancer nanotherapies, first presenting nanodrugs already on the market as well as those in clinical trials. A brief focus is given to the different types of passive and active targeting. Finally, this thesis focuses on T22-GFP-H6 self-assembled protein only nanoparticles, which specifically target CXCR4+ cancer cells. These nanoparticles, designed on the modular signal-brick-tag model, show great potential as drug carriers, capable of efficiently penetrating tumor cells and delivering therapeutic agents in a targeted manner. This thesis presents their characterization in cellulo and in vivo as well as a structural analysis by cryo-electron microscopy, concluding that self-assembled protein only nanoparticles represent a significant advancement for cancer treatments, with potential adaptation to various types of cancers and other diseases.