Intranasal delivery systems for traumatic brain injury: Advancements and perspectives

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity, commonly leading to long-term impairments in cognition, sensorimotor function, and personality. While neuroprotective drugs have demonstrated some efficacy in vitro cultures and in vivo animal models, their clinical applications remain debated. Intranasal delivery to the brain parenchyma, bypassing the blood-brain barrier for more direct access to target sites, offers a favorable and safe approach. This review illuminates current advancements in intranasal delivery systems for TBI treatment. We begin with an overview of TBI and its current clinical treatment options. We then outline recent developments in intranasal delivery systems of molecules and cells, emphasizing their efficacy in animal models. Finally, we discuss future clinical perspectives on emerging trends, offering insights into leveraging intranasal delivery for effective TBI therapeutics.