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

Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs) are versatile nano-carriers for wide range of applications. The advantages of SLNs include ease of preparation, low toxicity, high active compound bioavailability, flexibility of incorporating hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs, and feasibility of large-scale production. This review provides an overview on the preparation methods of the SLNs, the micro and nanostructure characteristics of the SLNs, and the different factors influencing sustained release and targeted drug delivery. The applications in agriculture and environment, cosmetics, wound healing, malarial treatment, gene therapy and nano-vaccines, and cancer therapy, are elaborated. The mechanisms such as passive, active, and co-delivery are discussed. The issues, challenges and the way forward with ionisable SLNs for delivery of gene and vaccines, RAS-targeted therapy, and bioactive compounds, are highlighted. In combination with multiple compounds and the potential for integration with nature/bio-based solutions, SLNs are proven to be effective, and practical for diverse applications.