A deep Insight into stabilization strategies and surface modification of nanocrystals and their implications in drug delivery: Focus on taxanes

Taxanes that are known for their high antitumor activity, have lipophilic structures and extremely low solubility in water, which causes several challenges in the development of their formulations and clinical applications. One of the commonly accepted methods to overcome this limitation is the use of nanocrystal (NC) technology. NCs increase the solubility and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs, such as taxanes, by reducing the particle size. Despite the advantages of NCs, their nanometric particle size causes physical instability issues that can compromise the efficacy and safety of the formulation. This article provides a comprehensive review of the recent advances in taxane formulations based on NCs. Common physical stability problems, such as aggregation, Ostwald ripening, sedimentation, and crystalline transformation, and common existing strategies, such as the use of electrostatic and steric stabilizers, layer-by-layer assembly technique, crosslinking and polymerization of stabilizers, and solidification of nanosuspensions, are discussed. Novel strategies including biomimetic coatings, incorporation of NCs into other nanocarriers, and surface modifications with regard to their effect on stability and drug delivery efficiency are also described. This review highlights the potential of these advanced stabilization techniques and surface modifications to improve the therapeutic efficacy and safety of NC formulations for poorly soluble taxanes, paving the way for more effective pharmaceutical applications.