Application of nanotechnology in drug delivery from the nose to the brain in the treatment of Alzheimer's: A review of recent developments, opportunities and challenges
Subject Areas : Applications of Nanostructures
Tahereh Navaie Diva
1
*
,
Maedeh Rezapour
2
1 - Department of Chemistry, Sava.C., Islamic Azad University, Savadkooh, Iran.
2 - Department of Chemistry, Am.C., Islamic Azad University, Amol, Iran.
Keywords: Nanotechnology, Alzheimer's disease, Pharmaceutical nanoformulations, Blood-brain barrier, Metal nanoparticles.,
Abstract :
Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders, with effective treatment facing significant challenges due to the blood–brain barrier. The nose-to-brain route offers a novel, non-invasive pathway enabling direct drug transport across the nasal epithelium into the central nervous system. In this context, smart and targeted pharmaceutical nanocarriers play a pivotal role in enhancing drug delivery efficiency. Cationic polymers such as chitosan, polymeric nanoparticles, nanogels, liposomes, and solid lipid nanoparticles are among the successful systems utilized in this approach. Surface functionalization of nanoparticles with ligands like apotransferrin and lactoferrin enhances specific neuronal targeting. Stimuli-responsive nanocarriers—reactive to pH, enzymes, or temperature—facilitate controlled and site-specific drug release within the pathological brain environment. These systems have proven effective in delivering anti-amyloid drugs, kinase inhibitors, antioxidants, neurotrophic factors, and siRNA. Toxicity, permeability, release kinetics, pharmacokinetics, and behavioral assays have validated their therapeutic potential in Alzheimer’s models. Nevertheless, formulation stability, inter-species translational gaps, and rapid mucosal clearance remain significant obstacles. Integration of nanotechnology with organ-on-a-chip platforms and artificial intelligence opens new horizons for safer and more precise nose-to-brain therapies targeting Alzheimer’s disease.
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