Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2025

Novel Methods for Intranasal Administration Under Inhalation Anesthesia to Evaluate Nose-to-Brain Drug Delivery
Published on: November 14, 2018
An Update on Recent Drug Delivery Systems Targeting Brain Diseases via the Transnasal Pathway
Huiying Zeng1,2, Huangjie Lu1,2, Jie Yang1,2
1State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511436, Guangdong, P. R. China.
Objective:
To explore the potential of transnasal drug delivery systems (DDS) as an effective means of bypassing the bloodbrain barrier (BBB) for enhanced central nervous system (CNS) targeting, aiming to improve therapeutic outcomes for CNS disorders while reducing systemic side effects.
Methods:
A review of current and emerging DDS technologies, including polymer nanoparticles, liposomes, and micelles, was conducted to assess their suitability for precision-targeted delivery to the brain through the transnasal route.
Results:
The investigated DDS demonstrate promising capabilities for CNS targeting via the nasal pathway, effectively preserving both the nasal mucosa and CNS integrity. These systems enhance drug precision within neural tissues, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes without harming adjacent tissues.
Conclusions:
Transnasal DDS offer a promising alternative to traditional delivery methods, with significant potential to advance the treatment of cerebrovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, brain tumors, and psychiatric conditions. This approach represents an evolving frontier in neurotherapeutics, with the potential to transform CNS drug delivery practices.
Related Concept Videos
Drug Delivery: Parenteral Route
There are three primary parenteral routes: intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), and subcutaneous (SC). The IV route introduces the drug directly into the bloodstream, ensuring immediate action. The IM route...
Drug Delivery: Miscellaneous Routes
Oral inhalation and nasal sprays swiftly transfer drugs across the respiratory epithelium's mucosal layer. Inhaled glucocorticoids and bronchodilators directly target lung conditions such as asthma, while fluticasone nasal spray mitigates allergic rhinitis.
Transdermal patches transport drugs...
Additional Routes of Drug Administration
Administering drugs via inhalation allows for the direct delivery of gaseous, volatile substances or droplets to different parts of the respiratory tract. One of the advantages of the inhalation route is the rapid absorption of drugs into the circulatory system, which is possible because of the large surface area of...
Drug Delivery: Enteral Route
Drug Delivery: Overview
Enteral delivery involves administering drugs directly through swallowing, sublingual placement, or buccal application. Orally administered drugs predominantly navigate the...
Non-Oral Extravascular Drug Absorption Routes
Lipophilic drugs that are stable at salivary pH (6) and exhibit minimal binding to the oral mucosa are absorbed more...

