Surface engineered nano architectonics: An evolving paradigm for tackling Alzheimer's disease

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with complex pathophysiology, projected to affect 100 million globally by 2050.
• Current AD therapies provide only symptomatic relief and face significant challenges, including the blood-brain barrier (BBB), poor bioavailability, and drug degradation.
• Nanocarriers (NCs) offer potential but often exhibit non-specific targeting, leading to peripheral toxicity and reduced efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review molecular signaling pathways in AD pathogenesis.
• To explore the significance of surface functionalization of nanocarriers for AD management.
• To discuss challenges and solutions for translating these advanced therapies from lab to industry.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of AD pathogenesis and nanocarrier-based therapeutic strategies.
• Analysis of molecular signaling pathways implicated in Alzheimer's disease.
• Evaluation of surface engineering techniques for nanocarrier targeting and drug delivery.

Main Results:

• Surface-decorated nanocarriers with targeting ligands enhance drug delivery to the brain, improving bioavailability and reducing toxicity.
• Functionalized nanocarriers facilitate controlled drug release and better penetration across the BBB.
• Understanding molecular pathways is crucial for designing effective targeted therapies.

Conclusions:

• Surface engineering of nanocarriers represents a promising strategy to overcome current limitations in Alzheimer's disease treatment.
• Targeted delivery systems are essential for improving therapeutic outcomes and patient quality of life in AD.
• Addressing regulatory and clinical hurdles is vital for the successful translation of nanocarrier-based therapies for Alzheimer's disease.