Recent developments in sustained-release and targeted drug delivery applications of solid lipid nanoparticles

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs) are advanced nano-carriers with significant advantages.
• These include ease of preparation, low toxicity, and enhanced bioavailability of active compounds.
• SLNs can incorporate both hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs and are suitable for large-scale production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs).
• To review SLN preparation methods, structural characteristics, and factors influencing drug delivery.
• To explore the diverse applications and future directions of SLNs.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs).
• Analysis of preparation techniques, micro/nanostructure, and release mechanisms.
• Examination of applications across various fields including medicine, agriculture, and cosmetics.

Main Results:

• SLNs demonstrate versatility in drug delivery, offering sustained release and targeted delivery options.
• Applications span agriculture, cosmetics, wound healing, malarial treatment, gene therapy, nano-vaccines, and cancer therapy.
• Mechanisms like passive, active, and co-delivery are effective with SLNs.

Conclusions:

• Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs) are effective and practical for diverse applications.
• Future directions include ionisable SLNs for gene/vaccine delivery and integration with bio-based solutions.
• SLNs show great promise for targeted therapies and delivery of bioactive compounds.