Solid lipid nanoparticles: a review on recent perspectives and patents

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Drug Delivery Systems
• Materials Science

Background:

• Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are biocompatible nanocarriers capable of encapsulating diverse drug types.
• Surface modifications enhance SLNs with properties like mucoadhesiveness and targeting.
• SLNs are increasingly favored for advanced drug delivery applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the advancements in solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) for controlled drug delivery.
• To analyze patent literature concerning SLNs from 2014-2019, with a retrospective summary from 2008-2013.
• To provide expert insights into the therapeutic, cosmetic, and nutraceutical potential of SLNs.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review focusing on SLN technology and applications.
• Systematic analysis of patent disclosures related to SLNs within specified periods.
• Synthesis of expert opinion on current trends and future prospects of SLNs.

Main Results:

• SLNs have been extensively patented for various therapeutic, cosmetic, and nutraceutical formulations.
• Targeted SLN compositions are frequently patented, indicating significant research interest.
• While targeted SLN compositions are patented, the number of claimed formulations for targeted delivery remains limited.

Conclusions:

• Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) offer a promising platform for drug delivery, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals.
• The patent landscape highlights a strong focus on developing targeted SLN formulations.
• Further development and patenting of specific targeted SLN formulations are warranted to fully realize their potential.