Drug delivery strategies for neuroprotective therapy in ischemic stroke: Application of nanotechnology

The mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of ischemic stroke are complex and multifactorial and include excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and blood-brain barrier disruption. While vascular recanalization treatments such as thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy have achieved some success, reperfusion injury remains a significant contributor to the exacerbation of brain injury. This emphasizes the need for developing neuroprotective strategies to mitigate this type of injury. The purpose of this review was to examine the application of nanotechnology in the treatment of ischemic stroke, covering research progress in nanoparticle-based drug delivery, targeted therapy, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory applications. Nano-based drug delivery systems offer several advantages compared to traditional therapies, including enhanced blood-brain barrier penetration, prolonged drug circulation time, improved drug stability, and targeted delivery. For example, inorganic nanoparticles, such as those based on CeO 2 , have been widely studied for their strong antioxidant capabilities. Biomimetic nanoparticles, such as those coated with cell membranes, have garnered significant attention owing to their excellent biocompatibility and targeting abilities. Nanoparticles can be used to deliver a wide range of neuroprotective agents, such as antioxidants (e.g., edaravone), anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., curcumin), and neurotrophic factors. Nanotechnology significantly enhances the efficacy of these drugs while minimizing adverse reactions. Although nanotechnology has demonstrated great potential in animal studies, its clinical application still faces several challenges, including the long-term safety of nanoparticles, the feasibility of large-scale production, quality control, and the ability to predict therapeutic effects in humans. In summary, nanotechnology holds significant promise for the treatment of ischemic stroke. Future research should focus on further exploring the mechanisms of action of nanoparticles, developing multifunctional nanoparticles, and validating their safety and efficacy through rigorous clinical trials. Moreover, interdisciplinary collaboration is essential for advancing the use of nanotechnology in stroke treatment.