Recent advances in targeted nanoparticle drug delivery systems for ischaemic stroke

Abstract

Ischaemic stroke (IS) is the second most common cause of death worldwide. Traditional treatment strategies, including blood flow recanalization therapy and neuroprotective drugs, have reduced safety and effectiveness due to their lack of targeting and inability to penetrate the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Targeted nanoparticles (NPs) can improve BBB penetration and brain targeting by changing their composition and structure, which can integrate a variety of treatment components to match the complex pathological process of IS. In this review, we describe recent advances in IS therapy, specifically in the prevention, detection, and treatment of IS, by using targeted NPs, presenting basic knowledge and possible therapeutic targets to highlight their potential for early treatment in the clinic.