Precision targeting of the CNS: recent progress in brain-directed nanodrug delivery

Abstract

The therapeutic drug penetration into brain tissues meets limitations through the restrictive function of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) within the central nervous system (CNS). The advancement of nanocarrier engineering techniques allows scientists to develop nanoscale delivery vehicles that successfully cross the BBB. This review analyses modern brain-delivery nanodrug delivery platforms by examining the properties and distribution of liposomes and polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, solid lipid nanoparticles, and exosomes. Organizations use specific physicochemical approaches designed for each platform to boost brain penetration and enhance therapeutic drug distribution for improving drug effectiveness. An analysis is presented of the various procedures to cross or bypass the BBB where receptor-mediated transcytosis joins focused ultrasound, as well as magnetic targeting and chemical modifications. The article presents therapeutic developments regarding neurological treatment of Alzheimer's disease, alongside Parkinson's disease and glioblastoma. Early laboratory success has produced promising results, yet challenges persist during the translation of these findings for clinical use because of safety issues as well as compatibility problems and difficulties with scaling up manufacturing processes. Finally, it discusses regulatory advancements and describes active market trends in nanomedicine that focus on precise delivery techniques and combination treatment methods, and brain-targeted delivery systems. The innovations combined present an optimistic future for CNS drug development because they create substantial opportunities to reshape neurological disorder treatments.