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A Review of Chitosan-Based Nanocarriers As Drug Delivery Systems for Brain Diseases: Critical Challenges, Outlooks and Promises Publisher Pubmed



Khodaverdi K1 ; Bakhshi A1, 2, 3 ; Mozafari MR2 ; Naghib SM1
Authors
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Authors Affiliations
  1. 1. Nanotechnology Department, School of Advanced Technologies, Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), Tehran, 1684613114, Iran
  2. 2. Australasian Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Initiative (ANNI), Monash University LPO, Clayton, 3168, VIC, Australia
  3. 3. Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Research Group, Department of Interdisciplinary Technologies, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran

Source: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules Published:2024


Abstract

The administration of medicinal drugs orally or systemically limits the treatment of specific central nervous system (CNS) illnesses, such as certain types of brain cancers. These methods can lead to severe adverse reactions and inadequate transport of drugs to the brain, resulting in limited effectiveness. The CNS homeostasis is maintained by various barriers within the brain, such as the endothelial, epithelial, mesothelial, and glial barriers, which strictly control the movement of chemicals, solutes, and immune cells. Brain capillaries consist of endothelial cells (ECs) and perivascular pericytes, with pericytes playing a crucial role in maintaining the blood-brain barrier (BBB), influencing new blood vessel formation, and exhibiting secretory capabilities. This article summarizes the structural components and anatomical characteristics of the BBB. Intranasal administration, a non-invasive method, allows drugs to reach the brain by bypassing the BBB, while direct cerebral administration targets specific brain regions with high concentrations of therapeutic drugs. Technical and mechanical tools now exist to bypass the BBB, enabling the development of more potent and safer medications for neurological disorders. This review also covers clinical trials, formulations, challenges, and patents for a comprehensive perspective. © 2024 Elsevier B.V.
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