The tiny big world of solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers: an updated review

J Microencapsul. 2022 Jan;39(1):72-94. doi: 10.1080/02652048.2021.2021307. Epub 2022 Jan 10.

Abstract

Nanotechnology is currently a field of endeavour that has reached a maturation phase beyond the initial hypotheses with an undercurrent challenge to optimise the safety, and scalability for production and clinical trials. Lipid-based nanoparticles (LNP), namely solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nanostructured lipid (NLC), carriers are presently among the most attractive and fast-growing areas of research. SLN and NLC are safe, biocompatible nanotechnology-enabled platforms with ubiquitous applications. This review presents a modern vision that starts with a brief description of characteristics, preparation strategies, and composition ingredients, benefits, and limitations. Next, a discussion of applications and functionalization approaches for the delivery of therapeutics via different routes of delivery. Additionally, the review presents a concise perspective into limitations and future advances. A brief recap on the prospects of molecular dynamics simulations in better understanding NP bio-interface interactions is provided. Finally, the alliance between 3D printing and nanomaterials is presented here as well.

Keywords: 3D printed nanocarriers; coronavirus; molecular modelling simulation; nanomedicine; nanoparticles nanotechnology; nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC); routes of administration; solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN); targeted drug delivery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Drug Carriers
  • Lipids
  • Liposomes
  • Nanoparticles*
  • Nanostructures*

Substances

  • Drug Carriers
  • Lipid Nanoparticles
  • Lipids
  • Liposomes