Nanotechnology-donated ischemic stroke therapeutics: evolving strategies from the basic to the cutting-edge

Ischemic stroke (IS) is accompanied by high disability and mortality. Thrombolysis and neuroprotection are the predominant therapeutic strategies for IS. However, thrombolytic drugs commonly suffer from hemorrhagic risks and unsatisfactory thrombus-targeting delivery. Additionally, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) presents a significant challenge for the effective delivery of neuroprotective drugs. In recent years, nanodrug delivery systems (nano-DDS) have garnered significant attention for their ability to improve drug efficacy in vivo and facilitate BBB penetration. Specifically, thrombus- and cerebral ischemic lesion-targeted nano-DDS have emerged as a versatile toolbox for the precise treatment of IS. Herein, this paper provides an overview on the latest advancements in nano-DDS for IS therapy, covering conventional nanomedicines, cell membrane-camouflaged biomimetic nano-DDS, and exosome-involved nanotherapeutics, with a particular focus on the potential and application of cutting-edge nano-drug delivery techniques. Finally, we discuss the future perspectives and challenges of nano-DDS in the context of IS treatment.